NewzIntel.com

Category: Politics

  • MIL-OSI Security: New York City Resident Pleads Guilty to Operating Secret Police Station of the Chinese Government in Lower Manhattan

    Source: US FBI

    Defendant Admitted That He Conspired to Act as an Illegal Agent of the Chinese Government

    BROOKLYN, NY – Today in federal court in Brooklyn, Manhattan resident Chen Jinping pleaded guilty to conspiring to act as an agent of the government of the People’s Republic of China (PRC), in connection with opening and operating an undeclared overseas police station in lower Manhattan for the PRC’s Ministry of Public Security (MPS).  Today’s proceeding was held before United States District Judge Nina R. Morrison. When sentenced, the defendant faces up to five years in prison.

    Breon Peace, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York; Matthew G. Olsen, Assistant Attorney General of the Justice Department’s National Security Division; and James E. Dennehy, Assistant Director in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI), announced the guilty plea.

    “A priority of my Office has been to counteract the malign activities of foreign governments that violate our nation’s sovereignty by targeting local diaspora communities in the United States,” stated United States Attorney Peace.  “Today, a participant in a transnational repression scheme who worked to establish a secret police station in the middle of New York City on behalf of the national police force of the People’s Republic of China has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to act as an illegal agent.  We will continue our efforts to protect the rights of vulnerable persons who come to this country to escape the repressive activities of authoritarian regimes.”

    “Today’s guilty plea holds the defendant accountable for his brazen efforts to operate an undeclared overseas police station on behalf of the PRC’s national police force — a clear affront to American sovereignty and danger to our community that will not be tolerated,” stated Assistant Attorney General Olsen.  “The Department of Justice will continue to pursue anyone who attempts to aid the PRC’s efforts to extend their repressive reach into the United States.”

    “Today, Chen Jinping admitted to his role in audaciously establishing an undeclared police station in the heart of New York City and attempting to conceal the effort when approached by FBI New York,” stated FBI Assistant Director in Charge Dennehy. “This illegal police station was not opened in the interest of public safety, but to further the nefarious and repressive aims of the PRC in direct violation of American sovereignty. The FBI is unwavering in our duty to protect both the freedoms enshrined in the Constitution and the security of our nation from oppressive hostile governments.”

    As alleged in court filings and facts presented at the plea proceeding, Chen Jinping and co-defendant Lu Jianwang conspired to act as illegal agents of the PRC government and also obstructed justice by destroying evidence of their communications with an MPS official (the MPS Official).  While acting under the direction and control of the MPS Official, the defendants worked together to establish the first known overseas police station in the United States on behalf of the Fuzhou branch of the MPS.  The police station—which closed in the fall of 2022—occupied an entire floor in an office building in Manhattan’s Chinatown.  Chen and Lu  helped open and operate the clandestine police station.  None of the participants in the scheme informed the U.S. government that they were helping the PRC government open and operate an undeclared MPS police station on U.S. soil.

    In October 2022, the FBI conducted a judicially authorized search of the illegal police station.  In connection with the search, FBI agents interviewed both defendants and seized their phones.  In reviewing the contents of these phones, FBI agents observed that communications between the defendants, on the one hand, and the MPS Official, on the other, appeared to have been deleted.

    Lu Jianwang has pleaded not guilty to the charges and is awaiting trial.

    The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s National Security and Cybercrime Section.  Assistant United States  Attorneys Alexander A. Solomon and Antoinette N. Rangel are in charge of the prosecution, with assistance from Trial Attorney Scott A. Claffee of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section.

    The FBI has created a website for victims to report efforts by foreign governments to stalk, intimidate, or assault people in the United States.  If you believe that you are or have been a victim of transnational repression, please visit https://www.fbi.gov/investigate/counterintelligence/transnational-repression.

    The Defendant:

    CHEN JINPING
    Age: 60
    Manhattan, New York

    E.D.N.Y. Docket No. 23-CR-316 (NRM)

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Member of Cypress Gangsta Crips Gang Charged with 2015 Murder

    Source: US FBI

    Earlier today, a two-count indictment was unsealed in federal court in Brooklyn charging Jason Soto, also known as “Twin,” a member of the Cypress Gangsta Crips (CGC), a subgroup of the Eight Trey Crips based in the Cypress Hills Houses of East New York, Brooklyn, with the February 2015 murder of Shakim Rivera, the leader of the CGC.   The defendant was arrested this morning and will be arraigned before United States Magistrate Judge Sanket J. Bulsara.

    Breon Peace, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, James E. Dennehy, Assistant Director in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI) and Jessica S. Tisch, Commissioner, New York City Police Department (NYPD), announced the arrest and indictment.

    “This indictment makes clear that my Office and our law enforcement partners are relentless in our pursuit of violent gang members who have committed murders and harmed communities like the Cypress Hills Houses for far too long,” stated United States Attorney Peace.  “We are reducing gang and gun-related violence and saving lives through a coordinated effort to target the most violent offenders, like this defendant.”

    “Jason Soto, a Crips gang member, allegedly appointed himself as judge, jury, and executioner to murder his own leader as twisted justice for the death of a fellow member. Soto’s alleged actions contributed to the infestation of gang violence plaguing a Brooklyn housing complex and endangered the lives of thousands of its residents. With the assistance of our law enforcement partners, the FBI will continue to apprehend any gang member wreaking havoc in our communities,” stated FBI Assistant Director in Charge Dennehy.

    “The residents of the Cypress Hills Houses, along with all New Yorkers in every neighborhood, deserve to live their lives without fear,” stated NYPD Commissioner Tisch.  “The NYPD and our law enforcement partners are dedicated to systematically dismantling the gangs and crews responsible for crime and violence in New York City. I commend the collaborative efforts of our NYPD investigators, the FBI, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York in identifying and holding accountable those who terrorize our communities.”

    As detailed in the indictment and other court documents, since at least February of 2015, Soto was a member of the CGC, which operated in the Cypress Hills Houses and elsewhere.  CGC members committed acts of violence to promote the gang, enforce the rules of the gang, keep rivals in fear of CGC and earn money for the gang through firearm and narcotics trafficking and robberies.

    The investigation revealed a deadly gang turf war fought in the Cypress Hill Houses—in the midst of residential buildings, stores and a playground—between gangs that have aligned themselves by where their members live within the housing complex.  The Bloods gang associated with the “Frontside” section of Cypress feuded with the CGC members of the “Backside” and “Teamside” sections of Cypress.  An internal war broke out in 2015 within the CGC when high-ranking member Demetrius Graham, also known as “Duke,” was murdered on February 19, 2015. Believing that CGC leader Shakim Rivera was responsible for Graham’s murder, members of CGC planned retaliation.

    On February 19, 2015, Soto traveled from Pennsylvania to Brooklyn to carry out Rivera’s murder.  On February 22, 2015, Soto lured Rivera to the vicinity of 9011 Bayview Place in the Canarsie neighborhood of Brooklyn.  As alleged, Soto and another member of the CGC shot and killed Rivera, the leader of CGC, in retaliation for Graham’s murder.

    The indictment is the result of a long-term investigation initiated by the FBI, the NYPD and the Office in 2015 in response to gang-related violence in and around the Cypress Hills Houses.  The investigation has resulted in charges against over 20 defendants for drug trafficking, illegal weapons possession, robbery and murder.

    If convicted, the defendant faces a mandatory sentence of life in prison, or possibly the death penalty.

    The charges announced today are allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s Organized Crime and Gangs Section. Assistant United States  Attorneys Emily J. Dean and Andy Palacio are in charge of the prosecution, with the assistance of Paralegal Specialist Theodore Rader.

    The Defendant:

    JASON SOTO
    Age:  36
    Queens, New York

    E.D.N.Y. Docket No. 24-CR-511 (RER)

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: North Carolina Man Found Guilty of Assaulting Law Enforcement and Other Charges During January 6 Capitol Breach

    Source: US FBI

              WASHINGTON— A North Carolina man was found guilty of assaulting law enforcement and other felony and misdemeanor offenses related to his conduct during the Jan. 6, 2021, breach of the U.S. Capitol. His actions and the actions of others disrupted a joint session of the U.S. Congress convened to ascertain and count the electoral votes related to the 2020 presidential election.

              A federal jury in the District of Columbia found Brett Alan Rotella, also known as Brett Ostrander, 35, of Kannapolis, North Carolina, guilty on Sept. 11, 2024, of three felony offenses, including obstruction of law enforcement during a civil disorder, and two counts of assaulting, resisting, or impeding certain officers. In addition to the felonies, Rotella was convicted of three misdemeanor offenses of entering and remaining in a restricted building or grounds, disorderly and disruptive conduct in a restricted building or grounds, and impeding passage through the Capitol grounds or buildings.

              U.S. District Judge Randolph D. Moss will sentence Rotella on Dec. 13, 2024.

              According to court documents and evidence presented during the trial, on Jan. 6, 2021, at approximately 2:24 p.m., Rotella was identified among a crowd of rioters amassed on the West Plaza of the U.S. Capitol building in Washington, D.C., wearing distinctive clothing that included a red skull cap, a black sleeveless puffy vest over a red sleeveless shirt, and white or gray long shorts. He carried a long pole with at least two flags affixed to it at various points during the day.

               According to police body-worn camera footage, just minutes after his arrival at the West Font, Rotella approached a police barricade and forcibly pushed it toward a Metropolitan Police Department officer, while shouting inflammatory remarks.

              At approximately 2:33 p.m., as the police line on the West Plaza became overwhelmed and was forced to retreat, Rotella was observed taking charge of a group of rioters, directing their movements by periodically signaling with his hand to “hold” and leading them up the southwest stairs toward the Capitol.

              Video footage from the Lower West Terrace showed that at approximately 2:40 p.m., Rotella followed retreating officers into the Lower West Terrace Tunnel, the site of some of the most violent attacks against law enforcement that day. Inside the Tunnel, as officers attempted to hold back the rioters, Rotella continued his advance, even after pepper balls containing chemical irritant were fired at him.

              Evidence during the trial showed that the mob, including Rotella, breached the Capitol entrance at the Tunnel by smashing the glass pane of one of the locked doors and forcing the doors open. CCTV and body-worn camera footage depicted Rotella entering the Tunnel and joining others in a concerted effort to physically assault police officers inside. Inside the Tunnel, Rotella pushed against police shields and attempted to leverage his body to push through the police line and into the building.

              Rotella left the Tunnel at approximately 2:55 p.m., but remained in the vicinity for approximately ninety more minutes, joining a large crowd that repeatedly surged against the police line.. Further video evidence depicted Rotella counting down and leading a coordinated push by the mob against the officers.

              Rotella was later observed grabbing a large orange ladder and handing it toward the front of the crowd in an apparent attempt to use it against the officers. Video footage showed Rotella pushing the ladder into the Tunnel and pushing against other rioters near him in an effort to collectively breach the police line.

              The FBI arrested Rotella on Aug. 29, 2023, in Mooresville, North Carolina.

              This case is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia and the Department of Justice National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of North Carolina and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of North Carolina.

              This case is being investigated by the FBI’s Charlotte and Washington Field Offices, which identified Rotella as BOLO (Be on the Lookout) #82 on its seeking information photos. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Capitol Police and the Metropolitan Police Department.

              In the 44 months since Jan. 6, 2021, more than 1,504 individuals have been charged in nearly all 50 states for crimes related to the breach of the U.S. Capitol, including more than 560 individuals charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement, a felony. The investigation remains ongoing.

              Anyone with tips can call 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or visit tips.fbi.gov.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Twelve Defendants Sentenced for Violent Home Invasion Robberies to Steal Cryptocurrency

    Source: US FBI

    A Florida man was sentenced to 47 years in prison on Wednesday for his role in a scheme involving a series of home invasion robberies targeting cryptocurrency. Between Sept. 5 and Sept. 12, a total of 12 men have been sentenced for their role in the scheme.

    According to court documents and evidence presented at the trial, Remy Ra St Felix, 25, of West Palm Beach, and his co-conspirators stole over $3.5 million from victims through SIM swapping and violent home invasions in which they held victims at gunpoint, assaulted them, and bound them with plastic cable ties. St Felix was convicted on June 25 by a federal jury in Greensboro, North Carolina, after a six-day trial. In addition to his sentence of incarceration, St Felix was sentenced to five years of supervised release and ordered to pay $524,153.39 in restitution.

    According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, beginning in late 2020, St Felix’s co-conspirator, Jarod Gabriel Seemungal, 23, of West Palm Beach, and foreign co-conspirators stole cryptocurrency from victims’ accounts at exchanges. They obtained access to the accounts by gaining control of the victims’ phone numbers through SIM swapping. In 2022, Seemungal and his co-conspirators devised the home invasion scheme and recruited St Felix and others to assist with the invasions. St Felix later became the leader of the home invasion crew. In September 2022, St Felix and members of the crew committed violent home invasions in Delray Beach and Homestead, Florida. In Delray Beach, the victims were held at gunpoint in their home. In Homestead, a man and his family were held at gunpoint in their home, and then the man was abducted, held hostage, and beaten, before the man was found by law enforcement 120 miles from his home.

    Later in 2022, St Felix and his crew targeted a Little Elm, Texas, man and made several trips to attempt the robbery. In December 2022, Seemungal and a Houston-based crew comprised of Deangelo Lee Contreras, 21, Tristian Rene Gamez, 21, Victor Gonzalez, 27, Jesus Salazar, 24, Cristian Valdez, 21, and Jesus Gerardo Valdez, Jr., 27, all of Houston, Texas, committed the home invasion. The Little Elm man and members of his family were held at gunpoint and restrained in their home for over three hours, during which time members of the crew tortured the man and his mother. The perpetrators stole approximately $150,000.00 in cash, two Rolex watches, and a valuable necklace and pendant.

    In April 2023, St Felix and Elmer Ruben Castro, 23, of West Palm Beach, invaded the home of a wife and a husband in Durham, North Carolina. Prior to the invasion, St Felix’s co-conspirators obtained unauthorized access to the couple’s email account and conducted multiple days of surveillance on their home. During the invasion, the men violently assaulted the couple, threatened them with guns, and restrained them with plastic cable ties. They forced the man to provide access to his computer and cryptocurrency exchange account. Seemungal then remotely accessed the computer and stole over $150,000.00 worth of cryptocurrency. Conspirators laundered the funds through anonymity-enhanced cryptocurrencies, as well as “instant exchanges” and decentralized finance platforms that did not conduct know-your-customer checks.

    In July 2023, St Felix traveled from Florida to Long Island, New York, to commit a home invasion of a family of five. Before St Felix could do so, however, he was arrested. At the time of his arrest, St Felix was in possession of two firearms and plastic cable ties.

    Throughout the conspiracy, the conspirators communicated via an encrypted messaging application to plan their crimes. They identified targets and discussed how to gain entry to homes, the tools required to carry out the crimes, the technical aspects of cryptocurrency, and the patterns of life of their targets.

    They also circulated pictures of their targets and their targets’ homes. In addition to the home invasions described above, conspirators used the encrypted messaging application to plan additional home invasion robberies in Fort Lauderdale, Florida; Orlando, Florida; and Georgia. Seemungal and the foreign co-conspirators financed the purchase of rental cars, hotel rooms, and firearms by co-conspirators Haisel Daily, 22, of West Palm Beach, and Ruben Matias Nicolopulos Silva, 22, of Lake Worth, Florida, to use during the robberies.

    Seemungal was also sentenced yesterday to 20 years in prison followed by five years of supervised release and ordered to pay $4,038,479.39 in restitution. Seemungal pleaded guilty on December 19, 2023, for his role in the scheme to steal cryptocurrency by hacking victims’ cryptocurrency accounts as well as the home invasion and robbery scheme.

    On Feb. 6, Castro pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit kidnapping and kidnapping. He is scheduled to be sentenced on Oct. 1.

    On May 29 and 30, nine of St Felix’s and Seemungal’s co-conspirators pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit kidnapping, and were sentenced as follows:

    • Jose Alfredo Avila, 27, of West Palm Beach, was sentenced on Sept. 11, to 20 years in prison, followed by four years of supervised release and ordered to pay $365,100.00 in restitution.
    • Contreras was sentenced on Sept. 5, to 15 years in prison, followed by five years of supervised release and ordered to pay $355,800.00 in restitution.
    • Daily was sentenced on Sept. 5, to 25 years in prison, followed by four years of supervised release and ordered to pay $524,153.39 in restitution.
    • Gonzalez was sentenced on Sept. 6, to 12 years in prison, followed by three years of supervised release and ordered to pay $355,800.00 in restitution.
    • Nathan Noel Quintana, 24, of Royal Palm Beach, Florida, was sentenced on Sept. 6, to 16 years in prison, followed by four years of supervised release and ordered to pay $365,100.00 in restitution.
    • Silva was sentenced on Sept. 5, to 12 years in prison, followed by five years of supervised release and ordered to pay $524,153.39 in restitution.
    • Cristian Valdez was sentenced on Sept. 6, to 12 years in prison, followed by four years of supervised release and ordered to pay $355,800.00 in restitution.
    • Jesus Valdez was sentenced on Sept. 6, to 12 years in prison, followed by four years of supervised release and ordered to pay $355,800.00 in restitution.
    • Jesus Manuel Santiago, III, 23, of West Palm Beach, is scheduled to be sentenced on Oct. 1.

    Also, on May 29 and 30, Salazar and Gamez pleaded guilty to conspiracy to interfere with commerce through robbery. Salazar was sentenced on Sept. 5, to five years in prison, followed by four years of supervised release and ordered to pay $355,800.00 in restitution. Gamez was sentenced on Sept. 11, to eight years in prison, followed by three years of supervised release and ordered to pay $355,800.00 in restitution.

    Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; U.S. Attorney Sandra J. Hairston for the Middle District of North Carolina; and Special Agent in Charge Robert M. DeWitt of the FBI Charlotte Field Office made the announcement.

    The FBI Charlotte Field Office investigated the case, with valuable assistance from the Durham Police Department and the FBI New York, Miami, Houston, Mobile, and Newark Field Offices.

    The National Cryptocurrency Enforcement Team (NCET) of the Criminal Division’s Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section (CCIPS) is partnered with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of North Carolina in prosecuting the case. CCIPS/NCET Trial Attorney and Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Iverson for the Middle District of North Carolina and CCIPS Trial Attorney Brian Mund are prosecuting the case. The U.S. Attorneys’ Offices for the Southern District of Florida, Southern District of Texas, and Eastern District of Texas provided valuable assistance.

    NCET was established to combat the growing illicit use of cryptocurrencies and digital assets. Within CCIPS, NCET conducts and supports investigations into individuals and entities that enable the use of digital assets to commit and facilitate a variety of crimes, with a particular focus on virtual currency exchanges, obfuscation services, and infrastructure providers. NCET also sets strategic priorities regarding digital asset technologies, identifies areas for increased investigative and prosecutorial focus, and leads the department’s efforts to collaborate with domestic and foreign government agencies as well as the private sector to aggressively investigate and prosecute crimes involving cryptocurrency and digital assets.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Cleveland Area Brothers Indicted for Fraud and Money Laundering Schemes

    Source: US FBI

    CLEVELAND – Rebecca C. Lutzko, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio announced today that a federal grand jury sitting in Cleveland returned a twenty-two count indictment charging two Cleveland area brothers with multiple fraud and money laundering schemes.

    Zubair Mehmet Abdur Razzaq Al Zubair, 41, recently of Bratenahl, Ohio, and his brother Muzzammil Muhammad Al Zubair, 30, recently of Pepper Pike, Ohio, face one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, 14 counts of wire fraud, one count of conspiracy to engage in money laundering, four counts of money laundering, and one count of theft of government funds. Zubair Al Zubair also faces one count of harboring a fugitive.

    The indictment charges that from June 2020 through August 2023, the Al Zubair brothers engaged in multiple schemes, including an investment fraud scheme, a Small Business Administration COVID-19 relief Emergency Income Disaster Loan scheme, a cryptocurrency mining scheme, a commercial real estate lease scheme, and a residential real estate lease scheme. According to the facts alleged in the indictment, the Al Zubair brothers obtained funds and property from victims under false pretenses and spent the proceeds on luxury items, such as cars, travel, entertainment, firearms, and jewelry. They allegedly falsely claimed to have extraordinary wealth and government connections. Zubair Al Zubair also allegedly falsely claimed to be married to a princess and to be a member of a royal family in the United Arab Emirates. The defendants also allegedly made false claims about potential investments returns, about property they owned or controlled, and about their intentions, among other falsehoods alleged in the indictment. Through these false claims, the Al Zubair brothers allegedly obtained millions of dollars from their victims. In addition to the fraud and money laundering charges, Zubair Al Zubair is also charged with providing a place to stay and transportation to a fugitive wanted on federal criminal charges.

    An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

    If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the Court after review of factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant’s role in the offense, and the characteristics of the violation. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and, in most cases, it will be less than the maximum.

    The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew W. Shepherd.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Huron Man Charged With More Than $2.5 Million in COVID-19 Relief Fraud

    Source: US FBI

    TOLEDO – A federal grand jury in Toledo returned an indictment on February 7, 2024, charging Daniel R. Hitlan, of Huron, Ohio, with three counts of bank fraud and five counts of money laundering related to filing false applications for Paycheck Protection Program loans.

    The indictment charges that between April 14, 2020 and May 13, 2020, Hitlan submitted three false PPP loan applications and received funding totaling $2,578,318.  Hitlan applied for the loans using two businesses that he owned: Sailor Sales, LLC and Daniel Robert Hitlan.  Hitlan applied for the loans at three separate banks.  In each instance, he falsely stated the number of employees for the businesses and claimed to have payroll expenses when in fact the businesses had no payroll expenses.  Hitlan supported the PPP loan applications by creating and submitting fictitious payroll documents and payroll forms with his application. 

    It is further alleged that Hitlan used the proceeds to conduct several financial transactions to include a check for $88,811.27 for the purchase of a 2020 Cadillac Escalade, another check for $48,232.63 for the purchase of a 1968 Chevrolet Corvette, two wires for the purchase of real estate in the amounts of $179,013.97 and $248,423.89, and a debit card transaction for $20,000 to a jeweler for the purchase of Rolex watches. 

    An indictment is only a charge and not evidence of guilt.  A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

    If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the Court after review of factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant’s role in the offense, and the characteristics of the violation. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum, and, in most cases, it will be less than the maximum.

    The investigation was conducted by IRS–Criminal Investigations and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Gene Crawford.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Russia’s invasion united different parts of Ukraine against a common enemy – 3 years on, that unanimity still holds

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Ben Horne, Assistant Professor in the School of Information Sciences, University of Tennessee

    Russian aggression has united Ukrainians around the flag. Omer Messinger/Getty Images

    When Russia invaded Ukraine in the spring of 2022, President Vladimir Putin incorrectly assumed it would be a swift takeover.

    In fact, three years on, negotiators from both countries are tentatively exploring the idea of a negotiated way out of a largely stalemated conflict.

    So what did the Kremlin’s initial assessment get wrong? Aside from underestimating the vulnerabilities of Russia’s military, analysts have suggested that Moscow also miscalculated the support Russia would receive from Ukrainians in the country’s east who have close ethnic ties to Russia.

    Our recently published study on Ukrainian sentiment toward Russia before and after the invasion backs up that assertion. It demonstrates that even those Ukrainians who had close ties to Russia based on ethnicity, language, religion or location dramatically changed allegiances immediately following the invasion. For example, just prior to the invasion of 2022, native Russian speakers in Ukraine’s east tended to blame the West for tensions with Russia. But immediately after the invasion, they blamed Moscow in roughly the same numbers as non-Russian-speaking Ukrainians.

    Moreover, this shift was not just a short-lived reaction. Three years after the invasion, we followed up on our survey and found that Ukrainians still blame Russia for tensions to a degree that was never so unanimous before 2022.

    A natural experiment

    Our study is part of a larger project exploring how effective Russian propaganda has been at influencing Russian-speaking adults in certain former Soviet states. Our inaugural survey was launched in the fall of 2020, while the question regarding tensions between Ukraine and Russia was first posed in February 2022, immediately prior to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

    Surveys were completed by over 1,000 Russian-speaking people in Ukraine − excluding Crimea and the breakaway Donbas region for security reasons − and in Belarus. While the spring surveys in Ukraine were conducted in person, the others were done by telephone due to the political situation in each country.

    Belarus was chosen because it shares a similar historical, linguistic and ethnic background to Ukraine, but the two nations have diverged in their geopolitical paths. Shortly after the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991, Belarus, like Ukraine, forged ahead in attempting to build democratic systems. But after Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko came to power in 1994, the country become an authoritarian state with a high dependence on Russia for political and economic support.

    In broad terms, Ukraine has had an opposite trajectory. Relations between Ukraine and Russia fluctuated over the initial years of independence. But since the Maidan revolution of November 2013 to February 2014, a staunch pro-Western leadership has emerged.

    Still, certain segments of the population in Ukraine continued to hold affinities toward Russia – most notably, the Russian-speaking older generation in the country’s east.

    Our surveys provide a kind of natural experiment looking at the impact of a Russian invasion on previous pro-Russian public sentiment.

    Ukraine serves as the “treatment” group and Belarus as a “quasi-control” group, with the distinguishing factor being a Russian invasion. The questions we asked: “Who do you think is responsible for the worsening tensions between Russia and Ukraine?” and “In general, how do Russian policies affect your country?”

    Ukrainian, American and Russian delegates meet for peace talks on May 16, 2025, in Istanbul, Turkey.
    Arda Kucukkaya/Turkish Foreign Ministry via Getty Images

    Converging blame

    We found that in Ukraine, but not in Belarus, geopolitical views were sharply unified by the experience of the invasion. On one level, this is not surprising – after all, the people of a country being invaded would be expected to hold some degree of resentment to the invading army.

    But what we found most interesting is that this effect in Ukraine massively overrode the split among various identities before the invasion. This was most prominent in people’s perceptions of who was to blame for rising tensions.

    Prior to the invasion, 69.7% of respondents in Ukraine overall blamed Russia for the tensions between the two countries, with 30.3% blaming NATO, Ukraine or the U.S. By August 2022, 97.3% of respondents in Ukraine blamed Russia for the tensions, with only 2.7% blaming NATO, Ukraine or the U.S.

    By comparison, in the neighboring country of Belarus, 15.5% of respondents blamed Russia for the tensions prior to the invasion, and only 21.9% of respondents blamed Russia for the tensions after the invasion.

    This near unanimity in Ukraine masks the massive shifts you see when broken down for demographic differences. For example, blame varied widely across regions of Ukraine before the invasion but converged after the invasion. Prior to the invasion, only 36.0% of respondents in the east of Ukraine and 51.4% of respondents in the south of Ukraine blamed Russia for the tensions. After the invasion, over 96% of respondents in both regions blamed Russia.

    A similar effect can be seen across other demographic differences. Only 30.6% of Catholics in Ukraine blamed Russia for the tensions prior to the invasion, while 83.0% blamed Russia later on.

    What were once stratified opinions before the invasion became uniform afterward.

    To check that this trend was not just an immediate post-invasion blip, we conducted the surveys again in September 2024 and February 2025. The overall proportion of Ukrainians who blamed Russia for the tensions remained high, with 85.7% and 84.5%, respectively. And again, these results held across the various demographic breakdowns.

    In February 2025, the most recent survey, 77.2% of respondents in the east of Ukraine and 83.0% of respondents in the south blamed Russia. Catholics across Ukraine continued to blame Russia, with 90.7% in September 2024 and 90.6% in February 2025. Overall, there has been a small drop in the percentages of those blaming Russia – with war fatigue a possible reason.

    Consequences for peace

    Our findings suggest that in times of collective threat, divisions within a society tend to fade as people come together to face a common enemy.

    And that could have huge consequences now, as various parties, including the U.S., look at peace proposals to end the Russia-Ukraine war. Among the options being explored is a scenario in which the current front lines are frozen.

    This would entail recognizing the Russian-occupied territory of Crimea and the separatist regions of Donetsk and Luhansk as part of Russia. But it would also effectively relinquish Ukraine’s southeastern provinces of Kherson and Zaporizhzhia to Russia.

    While our surveys cannot speak to how this will go down among the people of Crimea, Donetsk and Luhansk, the study did include Kherson and Zaporizhzhia. And our findings show that the sense of Ukrainian identity strengthened even among Russian-speaking people in those areas.

    Ben Horne has received funding from the Office of Naval Research through the Minerva Research Initiative (Grant: N000142012618).

    Catherine Luther has received funding from the Office of Naval Research through the Minerva Research Initiative (Grant: N000142012618).

    R. Alexander Bentley has received funding from the Office of Naval Research through the Minerva Research Initiative (Grant: N000142012618)

    – ref. Russia’s invasion united different parts of Ukraine against a common enemy – 3 years on, that unanimity still holds – https://theconversation.com/russias-invasion-united-different-parts-of-ukraine-against-a-common-enemy-3-years-on-that-unanimity-still-holds-255092

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Israelis have a skewed view on extent of Gaza’s hunger plight − driven by censorship and media that downplay humanitarian crisis

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Jori Breslawski, Assistant Professor of Political Science, Tel Aviv University

    Aid has only trickled into Gaza despite the Israeli government saying it would ease its blockade. Majdi Fathi/NurPhoto via Getty Images

    Under mounting international pressure, Israel announced on May 19, 2025, that it would lift its monthslong humanitarian blockade on Gaza.

    The aid, which the Israeli government said would include a “basic amount” of food to stave off starvation, comes as more than 90% of Palestinians in the Gaza Strip are experiencing acute food insecurity.

    Despite the staggering number of people at risk of malnutrition and starvation in Gaza, however, two-thirds of Israelis are opposed to allowing humanitarian aid into Gaza. That’s true even when that aid is delivered by international organizations not linked to either Hamas or UNRWA, the U.N.’s aid agency for Palestinian refugees that the Israeli government has banned and refuses to work with.

    What drives Israeli opposition to aid?

    As researchers with a keen interest in conflict resolution and humanitarian aid, we wondered whether a key factor driving Israeli attitudes may be misperceptions about the scale of humanitarian need.

    To find out to what extent misperceptions shape opposition to humanitarian aid, we surveyed close to 3,000 Jewish Israelis between Jan. 21 and March 19, 2025, across all age groups, regions, income levels and sex in an online survey.

    We found that many respondents believed that fewer than 10% of Gazans were going hungry − revealing a stark disconnect between public perception and the situation reported by international humanitarian organizations. Indeed, when asked to explain their opposition to humanitarian aid, one of those we surveyed responded, “They don’t have a shortage of food, it’s just presented that way.” Another replied, “The vast majority of Gaza residents have enough food, there are restaurants and shopping malls operating in Gaza.”

    Does credible information change attitudes?

    Our survey pointed to the role that media bias and censorship may be playing in distorting Israelis’ understanding of suffering in Gaza.

    Media bias is a common phenomenon during war. But since the Oct. 7, 2023, attack, in which 1,182 Israelis were killed by Hamas fighters, media bias over the war in Gaza has been institutionalized in Israel. Citing national security reasons, the Israel Defense Forces has ramped up censorship.

    A recent analysis suggests that more than 35% of articles from Israeli media have been partially redacted and almost 10% completely censored in 2025.

    While Israelis are free to consume international news, many do not due to language barriers and perceived bias against Israel.

    As a result, what Israeli citizens read, hear and see in national media increasingly reflects the interests of the government.

    Furthermore, online platforms such as Facebook and X are designed to promote posts that reinforce users’ preexisting beliefs, resulting in an echo chamber rather than exposing people to diverse viewpoints.

    Exposure to dire humanitarian situation

    But what happens when people expressing skepticism over the level of suffering in Gaza are presented with credible information?

    To test this, we asked a randomly chosen subset of participants to read parts of news articles published by Ynet — Israel’s most popular online news source — about the dire humanitarian conditions in Gaza. These included reports that managed to escape the censor of children whose weight had dropped by half and families surviving on grass and garbage.

    We then compared whether those who had read these news reports demonstrated higher levels of support for aid delivery than those who did not. The results showed that exposure to the news reports portraying the humanitarian situation in Gaza led to increased support for humanitarian aid − but only by a modest 5 percentage points increase.

    This limited shift underscores how deeply held many Israeli views on the war in Gaza are and how resistant to change attitudes are, even when it comes to basic humanitarian assistance. Understandably, part of this relates to the continued collective shock and anger provoked by the brutal Hamas attack in 2023. In addition to the killings, more than 250 hostages were taken, with dozens still be being held.

    Fitting with a broader pattern of Gazans being seen as undeserving of sympathy, our survey found that more than a third of Israelis believe that more than 90% of Palestinians in Gaza support Hamas.

    A common refrain we heard is that “there are no uninvolved” in Gaza. Many respondents explicitly justified their opposition to humanitarian aid with statements including, “Everyone in Gaza is involved in what happened on October 7,” or “They don’t deserve to be taken care of after they were happy about what they did to us.”

    However, this view starkly contradicts evidence of significant opposition to Hamas within Gaza.

    According to the latest poll from the Palestinian Center for Policy and Survey, taken in early May 2025, only 37% of Palestinians in Gaza thought the Oct. 7 attack was “correct.” Moreover, half of all Gaza respondents said they supported recent demonstrations calling for Hamas to relinquish control of Gaza.

    Given this reality, Israelis’ attribution of collective responsibility for the Oct. 7 attack creates a troubling moral calculus that rationalizes civilian suffering. Again, it points to the role that misperceptions play in the ongoing conflict and resulting humanitarian crisis.

    Another likely reason for the limited impact of being given accurate reporting of the humanitarian crisis is that it represents just a drop in the bucket compared with the broader information environment most Israelis are exposed to.

    A single news story, no matter how compelling, is unlikely to outweigh the cumulative effect of months of emotionally charged and partially censored media coverage, political messaging and social media discourse that emphasizes threat and distrust.

    In such an environment, deeply entrenched narratives are difficult to shift.

    In this regard, the fact that reading even a single brief news story had any effect is encouraging. It suggests that a more accurate and sustained information environment − one that conveys the true extent of humanitarian suffering and the complexity of public sentiment in Gaza − could have a much greater impact on Israeli public opinion.

    Jori Breslawski receives funding from The Hartoch Institute of Government, The Colton Foundation, the Smith Richardson Foundation, and the Global Religion Research Initiative.

    Carlo Koos receives funding from the European Research Council (www.wareffects.eu)

    – ref. Israelis have a skewed view on extent of Gaza’s hunger plight − driven by censorship and media that downplay humanitarian crisis – https://theconversation.com/israelis-have-a-skewed-view-on-extent-of-gazas-hunger-plight-driven-by-censorship-and-media-that-downplay-humanitarian-crisis-257201

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Largest Ukraine trade mission boosts UK defence partnerships

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Largest Ukraine trade mission boosts UK defence partnerships

    Largest multinational Ukraine trade mission boosts defence partnerships for British business

    • The UK led its largest-ever trade mission to Ukraine, with 51 defence companies taking part.
    • The mission brought together UK industry and likeminded European nations to secure contracts and boost high-skilled jobs across the UK.
    • Trade missions help strengthen national security, the foundation of the Plan for Change, and open up opportunities for our world class defence sector.

    A record 51 UK and international companies joined the fifth UK-Ukraine trade mission in Kyiv this week, making it the largest British-led trade delegation to Ukraine to date.

    Participating companies from across the defence economy specialising in areas like uncrewed systems and military goods are securing contracts which will boost high-skilled jobs in regions across the country, supporting the government’s Plan for Change.

    This week’s mission brought together leading UK defence firms to deepen cooperation with Ukrainian industry and partners from Norway, the Netherlands, Sweden, Finland and Latvia. This collaboration is vital in demonstrating a united multinational industrial front with European allies, scaling up support for Ukraine’s defence needs and strengthening supply chain resilience with international partners.

    This latest mission is a significant step in the UK’s 100 Year Partnership with Ukraine, reinforcing the UK’s long-term support for Ukraine’s defence, security and recovery and drawing on the collective industrial capacity and capability of European allies.

    Defence is a key growth sector in the Government’s upcoming modern Industrial Strategy and a prime example of how Government and industry can work together to aid our allies and boost UK security.

    Lord Coaker, Defence Minister said:

    Working with the Netherlands, Norway, and Ukraine we’re building resilient supply chains, putting Ukraine in the strongest possible position to achieve a just and lasting peace for years to come.

    The UK is continuing to lead the way on support for Ukraine, from military support to leading the Ukraine Defence Contact Group where since the UK took the chair nearly £23bn has been pledged in military support for Ukraine.

    Kevin Craven, CEO of ADS said:

    It is a privilege for industry to lead the UK in engagement both within Ukraine and with our Ukrainian counterparts. Indeed, this week’s trade mission – the most multinational of its kind to date – has been nothing but inspiring.

    The UK defence industry’s support to Ukraine is unwavering and stands ready to increase production capacity, develop innovative new capabilities, and build a resilient ecosystem. 

    Continued collaboration, both with our government counterparts and international allies, is pivotal as illegal Russian aggression continues to intensify. We will continue to deepen our industrial ties and fulfil our moral duty to the Ukrainian people.

    Marte Gerhardsen, Norwegian State Secretary said:

    European allies needs to stand together with Ukraine for as long as it takes. We work closely with Ukraine the UK and other European countries. The Russian aggression against Ukraine continues, and the need to rapidly strengthen Ukrainian and European defence capabilities are apparent.

    The security situation demands that we innovate and adapt. We need to ensure that our industries can meet the growing demands from our governments and armed forces.

    One of the purposes of the visit is to facilitate the establishment of projects and collaborations by more Norwegian companies in Ukraine. I am pleased to see how Norwegian companies work with Ukrainian partners to scale up productions.

    The mission follows the new UK-EU Security & Defence Partnership that was agreed on Monday, which could lead to significant opportunities for the UK’s world-leading defence industries, generating more high-skilled jobs across all regions of the UK.

    By joining forces with our European partners, the UK is strengthening its own defence industry while contributing directly to Ukraine’s long-term resilience.

    Background:

    • JEF nations represented on this mission include: Norway, Sweden, Finland, the Netherlands, and Latvia
    • DBT and MOD working closely together through the cross-government Task Force HIRST to drive increases in UK, Ukrainian and allies’ industrial capacity to support the Armed Forces of Ukraine, as well as domestic military resilience. It has recently secured a £1.6bn deal for air defence missiles for Ukraine.
    • The UK is fully committed to working with allies to step up support to ensure Ukraine remains in the strongest possible position, which is why £4.5 billion of military support will be provided this year – more than ever before.
    • Defence already supports 434,000 jobs and is an engine for growth. The Government’s new Defence Industrial Strategy will make sure national security and a high-growth economy are aligned and delivering on our promise to crack down on waste and boost Britain’s defence industry.
    • This week’s mission builds on the Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF) Oslo Summit held earlier this month, highlighting the UK’s growing cooperation with European partners on defence and security.

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: South Yorkshire to benefit from recent trade deals

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    South Yorkshire to benefit from recent trade deals

    Trade deals with India, US and the EU that have seen tariffs on key industries slashed are set to help drive growth in South Yorkshire.

    • Prime Minister to meet with the Mayor of South Yorkshire Oliver Coppard to discuss the benefits of his recent trade deals.  
    • Comes as we’ve nailed three trade deals in as many weeks to deliver growth that is a priority for the Plan for Change.   
    • Delivers job security for 5,000 workers in the region and will create more highly skilled jobs in communities.

    Trade deals with India, US and the EU that have seen tariffs on key industries slashed are set to help drive growth in South Yorkshire. 
      
    Reductions in tariffs on the steel and auto exports have provided security for nearly 5,000 workers, their families and the biggest two employers in the region.  

    It also will deliver opportunities for major job creators like Rolls Royce and Mclaren based in Sheffield’s Advanced Manufacturing Innovation District to grow – a priority of our Plan for Change

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:

    These trade deals deliver long term security for nearly 5,000 workers, their families and for steel and auto manufacturing in South Yorkshire.  

    It also will create opportunities for more seamless trade, attracting inward investment that will grow the local economy and make a difference to people’s lives.   

    These changes will be felt everywhere, whether it’s lower food prices at the checkout, more choice for consumers and higher living standards that will improve livelihoods across South Yorkshire.

    Over 31,000 people employed in agriculture across the region will also benefit from our agreement with the EU, which reduces red tape and burdens on business, meaning regional specialties like crab, Yorkshire Pudding and cheeses will face easy access to the UK’s biggest trading market. 

    The agreement also protects British steel exports from new EU rules and restrictive, providing further security for 8,400 jobs in the steel industry across Yorkshire and the Humber. 

    Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said:

    The three landmark deals secured this month with the US, India, and the EU have shown this government is serious about striking the deals that our businesses want and need. 

    We are delivering billions for the UK economy and wages every year as part of our Plan for Change. For businesses in South Yorkshire, these deals will mean stability and jobs protected as they seize new opportunities to sell to some of our biggest trading partners.

    The Prime Minister will tell the English Mayors and the Leaders from the Devolved Governments at a meeting of the Council of Nations and Regions in London today (Friday 23 May) that his trade deals with India, the United States and the EU will deliver economic growth that will improve people’s lives at home.   

    He will challenge those in attendance to drive economic growth in their local areas to deliver for working people.   

    Liam Bates, President of Long Products, Marcegaglia said:

    The intention to remove tariffs is a very positive step, which when implemented secures both our own production in USA as well as our customers. 

    Getting this deal across the line needs to be a priority, because supply chains are currently in a state of flux awaiting the details and the effective date.

    Our increased trade with India will unlock opportunities for every region in the UK to access the world’s fastest growing economy, including South Yorkshire.  

    Under the Free Trade Deal that was concluded, tariffs on cars sold to India will come down from over 100% to 10% under a quota.  

    In the same week, we negotiated a first of its kind agreement with the US that reduces tariffs on car exports to 10% for the first 100,000 vehicles per year, almost the total number of UK vehicles exported to the country last year.  

    Both of these deals secure greater certainty for the sector, the 5,000 workers in South Yorkshire and their families, while also enhancing opportunities for manufacturing in the region to grow. 

    Just this week, the Prime Minister continued to act in Britain’s national interest by confirming a new agreement that will deliver on his core mission to grow the economy, creating more jobs in South Yorkshire, raising living standards and putting more money in people’s pockets.   

    At today’s meeting of the Council of Nations and Regions the Prime Minister will also lead discussions about spreading AI to help working people access the services that they need in their local areas.

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Georgia: Women protesters targeted with escalating gender-based violence – new briefing

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Sexist insults, threats of sexual violence and unlawful and degrading strip searches against women protesters

    Opposition leader, Elene Khoshtaria, described being violently restrained by police, stripped and forced to lie naked on the floor during detention on 28 March 2025

    Full undressing during searches violates Georgian and international human rights law

    Amnesty witnessed police officers calling women protesters “whores” and threatening them and their family members

    ‘The Georgian authorities must immediately end all forms of gender-based reprisals and all unlawful use of force by law enforcement, investigate every allegation of abuse during the protests, and ensure accountability at all levels’ – Denis Krivosheev

    Police in Georgia are increasingly using gender-based violence including sexist insults, threats of sexual violence and unlawful and degrading strip searches against women involved in protests as part of their larger campaign to intimidate and punish peaceful protestors, Amnesty International said in a new briefing published today.

    Scenes of police brutality as well as violent physical attacks by unidentified individuals against peaceful protestors in Georgia have become disturbingly common since a powerful surge of pro-European, anti-government protests broke out in the country last year. Defying state repression, women protesters have become symbols of courage – but also the target of humiliation, abuse and psychological violence both by law enforcement officers and unidentified assistants.

    Denis Krivosheev, Amnesty International’s Eastern Europe and Central Asia Deputy Director, said:

    “The authorities may have hoped that by targeting women with threats of sexual violence, raids in their homes, unlawful strip searches, and arbitrary detention, they would crush the spirit of resistance, deter protesters from further gatherings, and silence them. Instead, women in Georgia have risen more boldly, denouncing the abuse, demanding justice and turning repressions into resistance and defiance.

    “Unlawful, invasive and degrading strip searches in Georgia appear to be being weaponised to humiliate and intimidate protestors, especially women. This is a clear violation of both domestic and international law. The Georgian authorities must immediately end all forms of gender-based reprisals and all unlawful use of force by law enforcement, investigate every allegation of abuse during the protests, and ensure accountability at all levels.”

    State violence and dehumanising strip searches

    In recent months, Amnesty has documented numerous accounts of protesters subjected to sexist insults and threats of sexual violence, as well as humiliating strip searches. Such treatment appears to be increasingly targeting women protesters and affecting them disproportionately. These abuses not only violate Georgian law, which prohibits full undressing during searches, but also international human rights law and standards aimed at safeguarding human dignity and protecting people from gender-based violence.

    Elene Khoshtaria, an opposition leader, described being violently restrained by police, stripped and forced to lie naked on the floor during detention on 28 March 2025. Despite her medical condition, officers denied her access to medication and restrooms even after she developed hypertension and suffered repeated vomiting.

    Kristina Botkoveli, a co-founder of a protest Facebook group, was forced to strip naked in front of her elderly mother, in addition to being subjected to threats during a raid by police on their home on 1 February 2025. Kristina suffered a panic attack requiring emergency medical care.

    Activist Nino Makharadze was detained during a peaceful protest on 13 January 2025 and subjected to an invasive strip search in a temporary detention centre. She was not allowed to inform her family and friends of her whereabouts and was only given access to her lawyer after the strip search. On 5 May, she reported being ambushed along with two women friends while returning home from a protest. An unknown assailant sprayed them with pepper spray and green paint while hurling insults. All three women reportedly sustained injuries, including chemical burns that required hospitalisation.

    Verbal abuse and gendered intimidation

    Sexist verbal abuse and threats of sexual violence against peaceful protesters are another common tactic used by law enforcement to intimidate and harass. During the 2 February 2025 demonstration near Tbilisi Mall, an Amnesty representative witnessed police officers calling women protesters “whores” and threatening them and their family members. Several women also reported being threatened with rape by masked officers.

    Natia Dzidziguri, after being detained during protests on 19 November 2024, was forced to kneel in a police van surrounded by men while officers hurled sexually charged insults and gestures at her.

    Mzia Amaghlobeli, a prominent journalist, was detained twice on 11 January 2025 during peaceful protests. On both occasions, she was subjected to sexist abuse by police, with the Batumi police chief allegedly spitting on her and threatening violence. The authorities have used the video in which Mzia Amaghlobeli smacks the police chief, following their verbal altercation, to prosecute her. They have ignored the video in which the police chief hurls sexist insults and verbal abuse at her. Mzia Amaghlobeli was remanded in custody following a swift hearing during which she faced further injustice in court when the judge refused to admit any of her defence evidence. The authorities to date have failed to investigate any police officers who allegedly ill-treated and otherwise abused her and other protesters. Not a single officer against whom serious allegations have been made, by Mzia Amaghlobeli or others, was suspended from their duties during the investigation.

    A pattern of abuse

    These reports are not isolated but appear to form a broader pattern of abuse by and impunity for Georgia’s law enforcement agencies. The humiliation, sexist rhetoric and physical violence directed at women protesters in Georgia align with broader efforts to intimidate those participating in ongoing protests. Local human rights defenders highlight that many victims of humiliating treatment by police, both women and men, remain silent out of fear or shame.

    Such actions may constitute torture or other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment and violate not only Georgia’s Constitution and national legislation but also its obligations under international law, including the UN Convention Against Torture, and international standards.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Georgia: Women protesters are targeted with escalating violence and gender-based reprisals

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Police in Georgia are increasingly using gender-based violence including sexist insults, threats of sexual violence and unlawful and degrading strip searches against women involved in protests as part of their larger campaign to intimidate and punish peaceful protestors, Amnesty International said in a new briefing published today.

    Scenes of police brutality as well as violent physical attacks by unidentified individuals against peaceful protestors in Georgia have become disturbingly common since a powerful surge of pro-European, anti-government protests broke out in the country last year. Defying state repression, women protesters have become symbols of courage – but also the target of humiliation, abuse and psychological violence both by law enforcement officers and unidentified assistants.

    “The authorities may have hoped that by targeting women with threats of sexual violence, raids in their homes, unlawful strip searches, and arbitrary detention, they would crush the spirit of resistance, deter protesters from further gatherings, and silence them. Instead, women in Georgia have risen more boldly, denouncing the abuse, demanding justice and turning repressions into resistance and defiance,” said Denis Krivosheev, Amnesty International’s Eastern Europe and Central Asia Deputy Director.

    State violence and dehumanizing strip searches

    In recent months, Amnesty International has documented numerous accounts of protesters subjected to sexist insults and threats of sexual violence, as well as humiliating strip searches. Such treatment appears to be increasingly targeting women protesters and affecting them disproportionately. These abuses not only violate Georgian law, which prohibits full undressing during searches, but also international human rights law and standards aimed at safeguarding human dignity and protecting people from gender-based violence.

    Elene Khoshtaria, an opposition leader, described being violently restrained by police, stripped and forced to lie naked on the floor during detention on 28 March 2025. Despite her medical condition, officers denied her access to medication and restrooms even after she developed hypertension and suffered repeated vomiting.

    Kristina Botkoveli, a co-founder of a protest Facebook group, was forced to strip naked in front of her elderly mother, in addition to being subjected to threats during a raid by police on their home on 1 February 2025. Kristina suffered a panic attack requiring emergency medical care.

    Activist Nino Makharadze was detained during a peaceful protest on 13 January 2025 and subjected to an invasive strip search in a temporary detention centre. She was not allowed to inform her family and friends of her whereabouts and was only given access to her lawyer after the strip search. On 5 May, she reported being ambushed along with two women friends while returning home from a protest. An unknown assailant sprayed them with pepper spray and green paint while hurling insults. All three women reportedly sustained injuries, including chemical burns that required hospitalization.

    Verbal abuse and gendered intimidation

    Sexist verbal abuse and threats of sexual violence against peaceful protesters are another common tactic used by law enforcement to intimidate and harass. During the 2 February 2025 demonstration near Tbilisi Mall, an Amnesty International representative witnessed police officers calling women protesters “whores” and threatening them and their family members. Several women also reported being threatened with rape by masked officers.

    Natia Dzidziguri, after being detained during protests on 19 November 2024, was forced to kneel in a police van surrounded by men while officers hurled sexually charged insults and gestures at her.

    Mzia Amaghlobeli, a prominent journalist, was detained twice on 11 January 2025 during peaceful protests. On both occasions, she was subjected to sexist abuse by police, with the Batumi police chief allegedly spitting on her and threatening violence. The authorities have used the video in which Mzia Amaghlobeli smacks the police chief, following their verbal altercation, to prosecute her. They have ignored the video in which the police chief hurls sexist insults and verbal abuse at her.Mzia Amaghlobeli was remanded in custody following a swift hearing during which she faced further injustice in court when the judge refused to admit any of her defence evidence. The authorities to date, have failed to investigate any police officers who allegedly ill-treated and otherwise abused her and other protesters. Not a single officer against whom serious allegations have been made, by Mzia Amaghlobeli or others, was suspended in their duties during the investigation

    A pattern of abuse, not isolated incidents

    These reports are not isolated but appear to form a broader pattern of abuse by and impunity for Georgia’s law enforcement agencies. The humiliation, sexist rhetoric and physical violence directed at women protesters in Georgia align with broader efforts to intimidate those participating in ongoing protests. Local human rights defenders highlight that many victims of humiliating treatment by police, both women and men, remain silent out of fear or shame.

    Such actions may constitute torture or other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment and violate not only Georgia’s Constitution and national legislation but also its obligations under international law, including the UN Convention Against Torture, and international standards.

    “Unlawful, invasive and degrading strip searches in Georgia appear to be being weaponized to humiliate and intimidate protestors, especially women This is a clear violation of both domestic and international law. The Georgian authorities must immediately end all forms of gender-based reprisals and all unlawful use of force by law enforcement, investigate every allegation of abuse during the protests, and ensure accountability at all levels,” said Denis Krivosheev.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Tennessee Man Sentenced to 63 Months in Prison for Felony Charges Related to January 6 Capitol Breach

    Source: US FBI

    Defendant Admitted Advance Planning To Interfere With Peaceful Transition of Power, Assaulting Law Enforcement Officers

                WASHINGTON – A Tennessee man was sentenced today to 63 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, for conspiracy to obstruct an official proceeding and assaulting, resisting, or impeding officers during the January 6, 2021 breach of the U.S. Capitol.  His and others’ actions disrupted a joint session of the U.S. Congress convened to ascertain and count the electoral votes related to the 2020 presidential election.

                Ronald Sandlin, 35, of Millington, Tennessee, was sentenced in the District of Columbia.

                According to court documents, Sandlin and two co-conspirators – Nathaniel DeGrave and Josiah Colt – planned to interfere with the peaceful transition of presidential power, beginning in December 2020. For example, on Dec. 31, 2020, Sandlin posted to Facebook that he was organizing a caravan to travel to Washington and sought donations on a GoFundMe site. The same day, he, DeGrave, and Colt began a private chat on Facebook to plan for Jan. 6. In the chat, they discussed “shipping guns” to Sandlin’s residence in Tennessee, where they planned to meet prior to their trip.

                On Jan. 4, 2021, before heading to Washington, Sandlin posted to Facebook a picture of Colt lying on a bed holding a firearm, with the caption, “My fellow patriot sleeping ready for the boogaloo Jan 6.”  Sandlin understood at the time that the term “boogaloo” referred to civil war.

                On Jan. 6, after watching live television coverage of the “Stop the Steal” rally near the Ellipse, at a nearby restaurant, Sandlin live-streamed a video in which he called on “other patriots” to “take the Capitol.”  In the video, Sandlin stated four times that “freedom is paid for with blood.” 

                Sandlin, DeGrave, and Colt then traveled together to the Capitol wearing protective gear, including gas/face masks, helmets, and shin guards. Sandlin was armed with a knife, while DeGrave carried bear spray.  The trio then marched towards the Capitol.  After arriving on the Capitol grounds, the men scaled dismantled bike barricades and past law enforcement officers, pushing past members of the crowd to get closer to the Capitol Building. Sandlin repeatedly yelled things such as “we’re not here to spectate anymore,” “the time to talk is over,” and “if you’re not breaching the building, move out of the way.”

                 The three men entered the Capitol through the Upper West Terrace door, at approximately 2:35 p.m. While inside, Sandlin and DeGrave pushed against officers guarding an exterior door to the Capitol Rotunda, slowly forcing the door open and letting a mob stream inside. Sandlin shouted at the officers, “you’re going to die, get out of the way,” before later grabbing an officer’s helmet.

                The three men then went together up a set of stairs and to a hallway outside the Senate Chamber. Sandlin incited others in the mob to prevent U.S. Capitol Police officers from locking the doors to the Senate Gallery, shouting “grab the door.” He began shoving officers in an attempt to keep the doors open. As he did this, his hand made contact with the side of an officer’s head. The trio and dozens of other rioters then gained access to the Senate Gallery, where Sandlin recorded a selfie-style video with his cellphone, exclaiming: “We took it. We did it.”

                After leaving the Senate Gallery, Sandlin smoked a marijuana joint in the Rotunda of the Capitol. He also stole a book from a desk in a Senate-side office, which he later described to Colt as a “souvenir.” He also picked up an oil painting from the Capitol and slung it over his shoulder before others in the mob took it off his shoulder. He finally exited the Capitol at approximately 3:16 p.m.

                Shortly after the riot, Sandlin deleted photographs and messages regarding the events of Jan. 6 from his group chats with Colt, DeGrave, and others.

                Colt, 35, of Meridian, Idaho, pleaded guilty on July 14, 2021, to obstruction of an official proceeding. DeGrave, 33, of Las Vegas, Nevada, pleaded guilty on June 27, 2022, to conspiracy to obstruct an official proceeding and assaulting, resisting, or impeding officers. Both are awaiting sentencing.

                In addition to the term of incarceration, Sandlin was ordered to pay a $20,000 fine and $2,000 in restitution.

                The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia and the Justice Department’s National Security Division are prosecuting the case, with valuable assistance provided by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices for the District of Nevada and the Western District of Tennessee.

                The case is being investigated by the FBI’s Washington Field Office. Valuable assistance was provided by the FBI’s Las Vegas, Salt Lake City, and Memphis Field Offices, the U.S. Capitol Police, and the Metropolitan Police Department.

                In the 23 months since Jan. 6, 2021, close to 900 individuals have been arrested in nearly all 50 states for crimes related to the breach of the U.S. Capitol, including more 270 individuals charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement. The investigation remains ongoing. 

                Anyone with tips can call 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or visit tips.fbi.gov.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Newark Businessman Admits Bribing Former Newark Deputy Mayor and Director of Newark Department of Economic and Housing Development

    Source: US FBI

    NEWARK, N.J. – A Newark business owner today admitted bribing a former city official in exchange for that official’s assistance in acquiring and redeveloping Newark-owned properties, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced.

    Irwin Sablosky, 64, of Springfield, New Jersey, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Madeline Cox Arleo in Newark federal court to two counts of an indictment charging him with honest services fraud and bribery.

    “As he admitted in court, Irwin Sablosky provided cash and jewelry to Carmelo Garcia, a former Newark deputy mayor and director of the Newark Department of Economic and Housing Development in exchange for Garcia’s use of his influence to assist Sablosky’s acquisition of  various Newark-owned properties for redevelopment, defrauding the people of Newark of their right to the official’s honest services. He corrupted the public official’s independent judgment and violated the public trust for his own financial gain. Our office will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to make sure that the people of New Jersey are protected from public officials whose greed overrides their sworn duty to serve the people and from the individuals who bribe those officials.”

    U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger

    “By bribing a government official, Mr. Sablosky undermined the best interests of his community and threatened the confidence its citizens have in those that take an oath to serve the public,” Special Agent in Charge Jenifer L. Piovesan, IRS Criminal Investigation, Newark Field Office, said. “IRS-CI is committed to fostering trust in the legal system and holding bad actors accountable.”

    “Irwin Sablosky’s selfish actions and severe abuse of power violated the public trust and risked jeopardizing the integrity of the federal process for fair and honest acquisitions of government owned properties to further his own self interests,” said Special Agent-in-Charge Vicky Vazquez with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Office of Inspector General.  “HUD OIG remains steadfast in its commitment to working with our prosecutorial, law enforcement, and oversight partners to aggressively pursue individuals who engage in activities that threaten the integrity of HUD programs.”

    According to documents filed in the case and statements made in court:

    Sablosky admitted bribing Garcia – who was also executive vice president and chief real estate officer of the Newark Community Economic Development Corporation (NCEDC) – in exchange for Garcia’s assistance with the acquisition and redevelopment of city-owned property.

    According to documents filed in the case and statements made in court:

    From 2017 through April 2019, Sablosky, Frank Valvano Jr., and others provided significant monetary payments and other benefits to Garcia while he was serving as a high-level Newark official, and prior to that, as an executive officer of the NCEDC (now known as Invest Newark), in exchange for Garcia’s use of his official positions and influence within the city of Newark and the NCEDC to advance real estate development matters of interest to Sablosky and Valvano. These matters included obtaining preliminary designation letters for Sablosky and Valvano and securing Newark-approved redevelopment agreements (RDAs) that allowed them to purchase and acquire various Newark-owned properties for redevelopment, and to ensure that Garcia did not use his influence and authority to act against their interests.In addition to cash, Sablosky and Valvano also gifted Garcia jewelry, including multiple high-end watches and chains, from their pawnbroker and jewelry business.

    Phone records and text messages obtained by law enforcement show extensive communication between Garcia, Valvano, Sablosky, and others throughout this period of time, including text messages in which Garcia arranged to personally collect cash provided by  Sablosky and Valvano. In one instance, in June 2018, Sablosky and Valvano, through an intermediary, supplied Garcia, then the city’s acting deputy mayor and director of the city’s DEHD, $25,000 in cash as part of the stream of bribes provided to Garcia.

    The honest services fraud charge in Count 18 of the indictment carries a maximum potential penalty of 20 years in prison. The bribery charge in Count 26 carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison. All charges are punishable by a fine of $250,000 or twice the amount of the pecuniary gain from the offense. Sentencing is scheduled for Feb. 20, 2025.

    Sablosky originally was charged by indictment in October 2021 with Valvano, 56, of Florham Park, New Jersey, and Garcia, 59, of Hoboken, New Jersey. Garcia previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to defraud the city of Newark and the NCEDC of Garcia’s honest services, honest services wire fraud, and receiving bribes in connection with the business of a federally funded local government and organization and awaiting sentencing. Valvano’s case is pending before Judge Arleo, and he is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents of the FBI’s Newark Field Office, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Nelson I. Delgado; special agents of IRS-Criminal Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Piovesan, and special agents of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Office of Inspector General, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Vicky Vazquez, with the investigation leading to today’s guilty plea.

    The government is represented by Elaine K. Lou, Deputy Chief of the Criminal Division, and Katherine J. Calle and Edeli Rivera of the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Special Prosecutions Division.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Owner of Telemarketing Call Center Sentenced to 121 Months in Prison for Multi-Year Scheme to Defraud PAC Donors

    Source: US FBI

    Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced that RICHARD ZEITLIN, the owner of a telemarketing call center business, was sentenced to 121 months in prison for his leadership role in a scheme to defraud donors of certain political action committees (“PACs”) through false and misleading fundraising calls.  The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Lewis A. Kaplan following the defendant’s guilty plea to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud on September 10, 2024. 

    U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said: “Richard Zeitlin’s actions represent a profound breach of trust, as represented by today’s sentencing.  The integrity of donor contributions is essential, and this Office will continue to pursue justice against those who undermine it.”

    According to the allegations in the Indictment, court filings, and statements made in Court:

    PACs are entities registered with the Federal Election Commission that may be tax-exempt and collect money to advocate on behalf of or against certain causes and political candidates.  By contrast, charities, unlike PACs, typically provide direct services to communities or causes. 

    From at least in or about 2017 up to and including in or about 2020, ZEITLIN used his telemarketing call center business and various associated entities to defraud numerous donors of millions of dollars by providing misleading and false information about how the donors’ money would be spent and the nature of the organizations to which they were giving.  Specifically, ZEITLIN directed his employees to alter the call scripts used when calling potential donors on behalf of certain PACs in order to mislead potential donors into believing that they would be giving to a direct-services organization (i.e., a charity), rather than to a political advocacy organization (i.e., a PAC).  ZEITLIN directed that these lies, misleading statements, and misrepresentations be made so that donors would be more likely to give money, thereby increasing the funds raised and profits for his businesses – which typically received approximately 90% of the funds donated.  In some instances, ZEITLIN’s businesses retained 100% of the funds donated with none of the money going to the causes described in telemarketing calls to donors. When one PAC treasurer confronted ZEITLIN with complaints from donors that solicitation calls falsely represented a PAC as a charity, ZEITLIN falsely denied that the calls were being made, acknowledged that such calls would be inappropriate, and refused to give the treasurer any call recordings that would have revealed his fraud. 

    ZEITLIN lied under oath to conceal his fraud.  In December 2020, while testifying under oath during a deposition in connection with a federal civil matter, ZEITLIN falsely stated, in substance and in part, that neither he nor his employees provided input as to the call scripts used by ZEITLIN’s telemarketing call centers when making fundraising calls on behalf of PACs.  In truth and in fact, ZEITLIN and his employees frequently provided input on and changed call scripts, including by adding false and misleading statements into the call scripts.  In March 2022, in a declaration filed under penalty of perjury to a federal judge, ZEITLIN falsely stated that, among other things, he was not associated with and did not direct, supervise, or control certain business entities relating to ZEITLIN’s telemarketing business when, in truth and in fact, ZEITLIN controlled all of the entities by exercising ultimate authority over managerial, operational, and financial decisions, including at the time he signed this declaration. 

    In or about May 2022, after ZEITLIN learned that he and his businesses were under federal investigation, ZEITLIN directed his employees to delete electronic messages relating to his businesses. 

    *                *                *

    In addition to the prison sentence, ZEITLIN, 54, of Las Vegas, Nevada, was sentenced to five years of supervised release and was ordered to pay forfeiture in the amount of $8,906,760.00, which represents ZEITLIN’s proceeds from the crime, and restitution in the amount of $8,906,760.00.

    Mr. Williams praised the outstanding investigative work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.   

    This case is being handled by the Office’s Public Corruption Unit.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jane Kim, Emily Deininger, and Rebecca T. Dell are in charge of the prosecution.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: New York Proud Boy Arrested on Felony and Misdemeanor Charges for Actions During January 6 Capitol Breach

    Source: US FBI

                WASHINGTON — A New York man has been arrested on felony and misdemeanor charges related to his alleged conduct during the Jan. 6, 2021, breach of the U.S. Capitol. His alleged actions and the actions of others disrupted a joint session of the U.S. Congress convened to ascertain and count the electoral votes related to the 2020 presidential election.

                Walter Joseph Wentland, 31, of Sparrow Bush, New York, is charged in a criminal complaint filed in the District of Columbia with a felony offense of obstruction of law enforcement during a civil disorder and misdemeanor offenses of entering and remaining in a restricted building or grounds, disorderly and disruptive conduct in a restricted building or grounds, disorderly and disruptive conduct in a Capitol building or grounds, and parading, demonstrating, or picketing in a Capitol building.

                The FBI arrested Wentland today in New York, and he will make his initial appearance in the Southern District of New York.

                According to court documents, Wentland, a member of the Hudson Valley New York Proud Boys, was identified in open-source images and video footage on Jan. 6, 2021, in Washington, D.C., marching with other members of the local chapter toward the U.S. Capitol building.

                Wentland was identified marching in front of a row of assembled law enforcement officers inside the restricted perimeter of the Capitol and, using a bullhorn, stated to police, “Where’s your f— oath?”; “Your values mean nothing”; and “We used to back the blue, but now you’re Oathbreakers and we can’t stand you”.

                Court documents say that Wentland continued into the restricted perimeter toward a walkway near the Northwest Stairs of the Capitol. At approximately 1:59 p.m., a line of Metropolitan Police Officers (MPD) dressed in riot gear moved towards the Capitol to assist in its defense. As the MPD officers walked by, it is alleged that Wentland engaged with multiple officers, including by physically grabbing an officer. It is alleged that Wentland continued to engage with police and physically grabbed a second officer.

                Wentland then moved onto the Upper West Terrace and entered into the Capitol building via the Senate Wing Door at about 2:26 p.m. Once inside, Wentland continued down the hallway before he turned around and exited the building at approximately 2:29 p.m. via a broken window next to the Senate Wing Door.

                This case is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia and the Department of Justice National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York.

                This case is being investigated by the FBI’s New York and Washington Field Offices. Valuable assistance was provided by the United States Capitol Police and the Metropolitan Police Department.

                In the 46 months since Jan. 6, 2021, more than 1,561 individuals have been charged in nearly all 50 states for crimes related to the breach of the U.S. Capitol, including more than 590 individuals charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement, a felony. The investigation remains ongoing.

                Anyone with tips can call 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or visit tips.fbi.gov.

                A complaint is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Fort Liberty Soldier Charged with Unlawful Firearms Trafficking and Lying About His Involvement in Insurrectionist Groups

    Source: US FBI

    RALEIGH, N.C. – A federal grand jury returned an indictment on Aug. 14, charging Kai Liam Nix, also known as Kai Brazelton, 20, with unlawful firearms trafficking, including the sale of two stolen firearms. Nix was also charged with making a false statement to the government. Nix is an active-duty U.S. Army soldier, stationed at Fort Liberty in Fayetteville, North Carolina. He was arrested on Aug. 15 and made his initial appearance in court today.

    According to the court documents, Nix made a false statement on his Security Clearance Application Standard Form (SF) 86 when he claimed he had never been a member of a group dedicated to the use of violence or force to overthrow the U.S. Government.

    Nix was also charged with one count of dealing in firearms without a license and two counts of selling a stolen firearm. If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen of the Justice Department’s National Security Division, U.S. Attorney Michael Easley for the Eastern District of North Carolina, Executive Assistant Director Robert Wells of the FBI’s National Security Branch and Special Agent in Charge Bennie Mims of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) made the announcement.

    The FBI, ATF and U.S. Army Criminal Investigations Department are investigating the case.

    The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of North Carolina and the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section are prosecuting the case.

    An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Alabama Man Arrested for Assault on Law Enforcement During January Six Capitol Breach

    Source: US FBI

    Defendant Accused of Spraying Officers with Pepper Spray and Throwing Metal Rod at Them

                WASHINGTON — An Alabama man has been arrested for crimes related to the breach of the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, which disrupted a joint session of the U.S. Congress that was in the process of ascertaining and counting the electoral votes related to the presidential election.

                Christian Matthew Manley, 26, of Birmingham, is charged with engaging in physical violence in a restricted building or grounds, civil disorder, and assaulting, resisting or impeding certain officers, among other charges. He was arrested on Oct. 15, 2021, in Anchorage, Alaska and made his initial court appearance today in the District of Alaska. A detention hearing is scheduled for Oct. 21, 2021.

                According to court documents, Manley was captured on video in the Lower West Terrace of the Capitol, approaching the archway entrance. At approximately 2:53 p.m., he can be seen spraying pepper spray at officers from the U.S. Capitol Police and Metropolitan Police Department, who were defending the entrance. He threw the empty pepper spray container at officers a few seconds later, then used a second cannister to again spray the officers. He then threw this cannister, too, at the officers. Then, at 2:55 p.m., he accepted a metal rod from another rioter and threw it at the officers.

                This case is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia and the Department of Justice National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Alaska.

                The case is being investigated by the FBI’s Birmingham Field Office, as well as the FBI’s Washington Field Office, which identified Manley as #81A in its seeking information photos, and the Metropolitan Police Department. Significant assistance was provided by the FBI’s Anchorage Field Office and the U.S. Capitol Police.

                In the nine months since Jan. 6, more than 650 individuals have been arrested in nearly all 50 states for crimes related to the breach of the U.S. Capitol, including over 190 individuals charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement. The investigation remains ongoing.

                Anyone with tips can call 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or visit tips.fbi.gov.

                The charges contained in any criminal complaint or indictment are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Temporary Closure of Bona Vacantia Office

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Temporary Closure of Bona Vacantia Office

    Please note that the Bona Vacantia Office and our usual published switchboard numbers will be closed on Monday 26th May and Tuesday 27th May 2025.

    Please note that the Bona Vacantia Office and our usual published switchboard numbers will be closed on Monday 26th May and Tuesday 27th May 2025. If you wish to contact any of the teams for assistance during this period of closure, you can still contact Bona Vacantia using the email addresses published on the BV homepage. Normal service will resume on Wednesday 28th May 2025.

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: MHRA approves polihexanide to treat acanthamoeba keratitis

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    MHRA approves polihexanide to treat acanthamoeba keratitis

    As with any medicine, the MHRA will keep the safety and effectiveness of polihexanide under close review. 

    The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has approved polihexanide (Akantior) to treat acanthamoeba keratitis. 

    Acanthamoeba keratitis is an infection of the cornea, the clear ‘window’ at the front of the eye, that can be very painful.  

    This medicine has been approved through the International Recognition Procedure (IRP). The IRP allows the MHRA to take into account the expertise and decision-making of trusted regulatory partners for the benefit of UK patients.   

    Polihexanide is administered as an eye drop solution, directly into the eye.    

    The MHRA conducts a targeted assessment of IRP applications and retains the authority to reject applications if the evidence provided is not considered sufficiently robust.  

    A full list of side effects can be found in the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) or the Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC), available on the MHRA website within 7 days of approval.   

    As with any medicine, the MHRA will keep the safety and effectiveness of polihexanide under close review.   

    Anyone who suspects they are having a side effect from this medicine is encouraged to talk to their doctor, pharmacist or nurse and report it directly to the MHRA Yellow Card scheme, either through the website (https://yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk/) or by searching the Google Play or Apple App stores for MHRA Yellow Card.

    Notes to editors      

    • The approval was granted on 15 June 2025 to SIFI S.P.A. 

    • This product was submitted and approved via International Recognition Procedure.    

    • More information can be found in the Summary of Product Characteristics and Patient Information leaflets which will be published on the MHRA Products website within 7 days of approval.    

    • The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is responsible for regulating all medicines and medical devices in the UK by ensuring they work and are acceptably safe.  All our work is underpinned by robust and fact-based judgements to ensure that the benefits justify any risks.    

    • The MHRA is an executive agency of the Department of Health and Social Care.    

    • For media enquiries, please contact the newscentre@mhra.gov.uk, or call on 020 3080 7651.

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Deadline for paper tax returns is Saturday 31 May23 May 2025 Islanders are reminded that they have until Saturday 31 May if they intend to file a paper tax return. So far, 33,400 of the Island’s approximately 67,000 taxpayers have submitted their tax return,… Read more

    Source: Channel Islands – Jersey

    23 May 2025

    Islanders are reminded that they have until Saturday 31 May if they intend to file a paper tax return. 

    So far, 33,400 of the Island’s approximately 67,000 taxpayers have submitted their tax return, with 18,253 paper returns received. 

    Those who do not complete a paper tax return by Saturday 31 May have until Thursday 31 July to submit an online tax return. Taxpayers who file on paper, or online, after the respective deadline dates, will be liable to fines which increase gradually until a return is filed. 

    Last year 51% of Islanders chose to file online and those who want to file online for the first time this year will need to activate a onegov account, and set up a digital ID before they can complete their tax return online. 

    There is a range of support available for the whole process, including: 

    • Step-by-step video for setting up a digital ID 
    • Telephone support for the tax return from Revenue Jersey on (01534) 440300 
    • Telephone support to activate a onegov account from Customer and Local Services on (01534) 444444 
    • Online guidance for filing your tax return: File your personal tax return.

    Richard Summersgill, Comptroller of Revenue, said: “We are hoping that Islanders will complete their returns – either on paper or online – in good time this year. 

    “It is always best to file a tax return early as this increases the likelihood of monthly tax deductions from employees’ salaries not changing significantly in future months.

    “Currently, 88% of customers’ 2024 returns are being assessed within 30 days. 

    “After the paper filing deadline, taxpayers who have a passport will still have the option to avoid a fine by activating a onegov account and filing online by 31 July.”

    Islanders are reminded that Revenue Jersey moved from Philip Le Feuvre House in La Motte Street in December. It is now situated in the Government of Jersey Union Street building. With the deadline falling on Saturday 31 May, the building will be closed but there is an exterior mailbox where customers can drop documents. 

    For anyone who does not have a valid passport, a non-passport option for JerseyMe is available. More information is available at JerseyMe digital ID​.​

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Grants available to organisations to improve energy efficiency

    Source: Scotland – City of Aberdeen

    Small and medium businesses, sole traders and third sector organisations in Aberdeen are being encouraged to apply for grants that can help in reductions towards energy bills and lower their carbon footprint.  

    The Aberdeen Energy Efficiency Programme, ran in partnership with SCARF, offers non-repayable grants of up to £10,000 to eligible businesses. These grants will cover up to 50% of the total project cost, providing businesses with the financial support needed to undertake energy-saving upgrades. 

    Aberdeen City Council Co-Leader Councillor Christian Allard said: “This is a great opportunity for local businesses to reduce their energy costs while contributing towards our net zero goals. 

    “I encourage all eligible businesses to apply and discover what support they could receive.”  

    Aberdeen City Council Co-Leader Councillor Ian Yuill said: “The grants available represent a significant step forward in supporting Aberdeen’s businesses to embrace energy efficiency and sustainability. This is an important scheme that offers practical help in our area while promoting and expanding the the use of responsible, green options.”   

    David Mackay, Co-CEO at SCARF said: “This programme genuinely makes a difference – helping local businesses cut costs, invest in their future, and play a meaningful role in Aberdeen’s net zero journey. We’re pleased to see it return for a second iteration and proud to continue delivering it. 

    “With energy costs high and the urgency of climate action growing, businesses need support that is practical, timely, and accessible. The Aberdeen Energy Efficiency Programme delivers exactly that. It’s good for business, good for the community, and good for Aberdeen.” 

    The Grant can be used to fund anything that will help organisations make progress towards net-zero carbon emissions and result in long-term sustained reductions in energy bills. 

    The Energy Efficiency Programme is funded by the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. 

    Applications are open now and close on 23 November 2025 or when funding is fully allocated. To find out more information and how to apply, visit the SCARF website.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 23 May 2025 Departmental update The World Health Assembly endorses the extension of the Global Strategy on Digital Health to 2027 and approves the next phase for 2028–2033

    Source: World Health Organisation

    Digital health is not about applications, platforms, or devices. It’s about transforming how health systems serve people—more equitably, more effectively, and with greater attention to individual needs.

    Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus / WHO Director-General

    Originally endorsed at the Seventy-third World Health Assembly (WHA73) in 2020, the strategy has catalyzed significant progress in equitable digital health implementation across all WHO regions. Key advancements include advancement in the development of national digital health strategies, strengthened collaboration through regional frameworks, enhanced cross-border interoperability, the establishment of guidance and governance on artificial intelligence, and improvements in health information systems. Digital health has also gained sustained global attention, having been included in the agendas of five consecutive G20 presidencies.

    Since the Strategy’s launch, countries and partners have made substantial progress:

    • 129 countries have established national digital health strategies.
    • Over 1,600 government officials from more than 100 countries have received training in digital health and artificial intelligence.
    • Transformative initiatives such as the Global Digital Health Certification Network have been launched, benefiting 1.8 billion people across 80 countries.
    • Critical guidance on artificial intelligence in health has been issued, including the Ethics and Governance of Artificial Intelligence for Health, with global workshops supporting Member States in ethical AI implementation.
    • 130 Member States have conducted digital health maturity assessments using the Global Digital Health Monitor.
    • Government-to-government collaboration on digital health has been established in four WHO regions, with 40 Member States joining the Global Digital Health Partnership.
    • Global collaboration has been strengthened through the Global Initiative on Digital Health, the WHO Innovation Hub and regional frameworks led by WHO, ITU, the African Union, PAHO and other key partners.

    “This extension is not just about adding two more years—it’s about accelerating action. With a renewed mandate extending from 2028 to 2033, we are entering a critical phase where digital health must be purposefully scaled and equitably integrated into every health system. From AI to telehealth, we have the tools; now we must ensure they reach and benefit everyone,” Dr Alain Labrique, Director of WHO’s Department of Digital Health and Innovation.

    With digital health set to play an increasingly central role in universal health coverage, pandemic preparedness, and climate-resilient systems, this extension reaffirms the shared commitment of WHO and its Member States for inclusive, ethical and sustainable digital transformation.

    “,”datePublished”:”2025-05-23T07:48:42.0000000+00:00″,”image”:”https://cdn.who.int/media/images/default-source/topics/health-systems-and-interventions/digital-health/wha-assembly.jpg?sfvrsn=2b149a22_4″,”publisher”:{“@type”:”Organization”,”name”:”World Health Organization: WHO”,”logo”:{“@type”:”ImageObject”,”url”:”https://www.who.int/Images/SchemaOrg/schemaOrgLogo.jpg”,”width”:250,”height”:60}},”dateModified”:”2025-05-23T07:48:42.0000000+00:00″,”mainEntityOfPage”:”https://www.who.int/news/item/23-05-2025-world-health-assembly-endorses-extension-of-the-global-digital-health-strategy-to-2027″,”@context”:”http://schema.org”,”@type”:”NewsArticle”};
    ]]>

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI: Solar Alliance announces revocation of cease trade order

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO and KNOXVILLE, Tenn., May 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Solar Alliance Energy Inc. (‘Solar Alliance’ or the ‘Company’) (TSX-V: SOLR, OTC: SAENF), a leading solar energy solutions provider focused on the commercial and utility solar sectors, announces that the failure-to-file cease trade order has been revoked by the British Columbia Securities Commission after the Company filed its audited annual financial statements and corresponding management’s discussion and analysis for the year ended December 31, 2024. The Company is following up with the TSX Venture Exchange to remove its suspension and resume the trading of the Company’s common shares.

    Brian Timmons, CEO

    About Solar Alliance Energy Inc. (www.solaralliance.com)

    Solar Alliance is an energy solutions provider focused on the commercial, utility and community solar sectors. Our experienced team of solar professionals reduces or eliminates customers’ vulnerability to rising energy costs, offers an environmentally friendly source of electricity generation, and provides affordable, turnkey clean energy solutions. Solar Alliance’s strategy is to ultimately build, own and operate our own solar assets while also generating stable revenue through the sale and installation of solar projects to commercial and utility community customers.

    Statements in this news release, other than purely historical information, including statements relating to the Company’s future plans and objectives or expected results, constitute Forward-looking statements.

    The words “would”, “will”, “expected” and “estimated” or other similar words and phrases are intended to identify forward-looking information. Forward-looking information in this news release includes, but is not limited to, statements with respect to the resumption of trading of the Company’s common shares. Forward-looking information is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the Company’s actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements to be materially different than those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Such factors include but are not limited to: the ability to complete the Company’s projects on schedule or at all, uncertainties related to the ability to raise sufficient capital; changes in economic conditions or financial markets; litigation, legislative or other judicial, regulatory, legislative and political competitive developments; technological or operational difficulties; the ability to maintain revenue growth; the ability to execute on the Company’s strategies; the ability to complete the Company’s current and backlog of solar projects; the ability to grow the Company’s market share; the high growth rate of the US solar industry; the ability to convert the backlog of projects into revenue; the expected timing of the construction and completion of the 1500 kW Kentucky solar projects; the targeting of larger customers; the ability to predict and counteract the effects, should they re-emerge, of COVID-19 on the business of the Company, including but not limited to the effects of COVID-19, on the construction sector, capital market conditions, restriction on labour and international travel and supply chains; potential corporate growth opportunities and the ability to execute on the key objectives in 2025. Consequently, actual results may vary materially from those described in the forward-looking statements.

    “Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.”

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Abaxx Singapore Achieves ISO/IEC 27001:2022 Certification for Information Security Management

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, May 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Abaxx Technologies Inc. (CBOE:ABXX)(OTCQX:ABXXF) (“Abaxx” or the “Company”), a financial software and market infrastructure company, majority shareholder of Abaxx Singapore Pte. Ltd. (“Abaxx Singapore”), the owner of Abaxx Commodity Exchange and Clearinghouse (individually, “Abaxx Exchange” and “Abaxx Clearing”), and producer of the SmarterMarkets™ Podcast, today announced that Abaxx Singapore has achieved ISO/IEC 27001:2022 certification for its Information Security Management System (ISMS). The certification confirms that Abaxx Singapore’s exchange and clearing infrastructure meets internationally recognized standards for securing data, managing risk, and supporting operational resilience.

    The certification was awarded by Prescient Security, an independent global cybersecurity firm specializing in information security audits, compliance assessments, and penetration testing. ISO/IEC 27001:2022 is the global standard for information security management systems (ISMS), providing a framework for managing data security risks across people, processes, and technology. It is jointly published by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC).

    As part of the certification process, Abaxx Singapore underwent a comprehensive audit of its IT systems, risk management protocols, and governance controls. The review confirmed alignment with global best practices for establishing, maintaining, and continually improving information security management frameworks.

    “Achieving ISO/IEC 27001:2022 certification demonstrates that our exchange and clearing infrastructure aligns with the highest global standards for information security,” said Nancy Seah, CEO of Abaxx Exchange. “For market participants, it provides assurance that the systems supporting trade execution, clearing, and data protection are built on a secure and resilient foundation. It also supports onboarding and ongoing operations with global institutions that require independently audited controls for risk, compliance, and business continuity.”

    About Abaxx Technologies
    Abaxx Technologies is building Smarter Markets: markets empowered by better tools, better benchmarks, and better technology to drive market-based solutions to the biggest challenges we face as a society, including the energy transition.

    In addition to developing and deploying financial technologies that make communication, trade, and transactions easier and more secure, Abaxx is the indirect majority shareholder of Abaxx Singapore Pte. Ltd., the owner of Abaxx Exchange and Abaxx Clearing, and the parent company of wholly owned subsidiary Abaxx Spot Pte. Ltd., the operator of Abaxx Spot.

    Abaxx Exchange delivers the market infrastructure critical to the shift toward an electrified, low-carbon economy through centrally-cleared, physically-deliverable futures contracts in LNG, carbon, battery materials, and precious metals, meeting the commercial needs of today’s commodity markets and establishing the next generation of global benchmarks.

    For more information, visit abaxx.tech | abaxx.exchange | abaxxspot.com | basecarbon.com | smartermarkets.media

    For more information about this press release, please contact:
    Steve Fray, CFO
    Tel: +1 647 490 1590

    Media and Investor inquiries:
    Abaxx Technologies Inc.
    Investor Relations Team
    Tel: +1 647 490 1590
    E-mail: ir@abaxx.tech

    Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

    This press release includes certain “forward-looking statements” which do not consist of historical facts. Forward-looking statements include estimates and statements that describe Abaxx’s future plans, objectives, or goals, including words to the effect that Abaxx expects a stated condition or result to occur. Forward-looking statements may be identified by such terms as “seeking”, “should”, “intend”, “predict”, “potential”, “believes”, “anticipates”, “expects”, “estimates”, “may”, “could”, “would”, “will”, “continue”, “plan” or the negative of these terms and similar expressions. Since forward-looking statements are based on current expectations and assumptions and address future events and conditions, by their very nature they involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Although these statements are based on information currently available to Abaxx, Abaxx does not provide any assurance that actual results will meet respective management expectations. Risks, uncertainties, assumptions, and other factors involved with forward- looking information could cause actual events, results, performance, prospects, and opportunities to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information.

    Forward-looking information related to Abaxx in this press release includes, but is not limited to: Abaxx’s objectives, goals or future plans; focus on risk management; and development of secure infrastructure. Such factors impacting forward-looking information include, among others: risks relating to the global economic climate; dilution; Abaxx’s limited operating history; future capital needs and uncertainty of additional financing; the competitive nature of the industry; currency exchange risks; the need for Abaxx to manage its planned growth and expansion; the effects of product development and need for continued technology change; protection of proprietary rights; the effect of government regulation and compliance on Abaxx and the industry; acquiring and maintaining regulatory approvals for Abaxx’s products and operations; the ability to list Abaxx’s securities on stock exchanges in a timely fashion or at all; network security risks; the ability of Abaxx to maintain properly working systems; reliance on key personnel; global economic and financial market deterioration impeding access to capital or increasing the cost of capital; and volatile securities markets impacting security pricing unrelated to operating performance. In addition, particular factors which could impact future results of the business of Abaxx include but are not limited to: operations in foreign jurisdictions; protection of intellectual property rights; contractual risk; third-party risk; clearinghouse risk; malicious actor risks; third- party software license risk; system failure risk; risk of technological change; dependence of technical infrastructure; changes in the price of commodities; capital market conditions; and restriction on labor and international travel and supply chains in addition to the risk factors identified in the Company’s most recent management discussion and analysis filed on SEDAR+. Abaxx has also assumed that no significant events occur outside of Abaxx’s normal course of business.

    Abaxx cautions that the foregoing list of material factors is not exhaustive. In addition, although Abaxx has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated, or intended. When relying on forward- looking statements and information to make decisions, investors and others should carefully consider the foregoing factors and other uncertainties and potential events. Abaxx has assumed that the material factors referred to in the previous paragraphs will not cause such forward-looking statements and information to differ materially from actual results or events. However, the list of these factors is not exhaustive and is subject to change and there can be no assurance that such assumptions will reflect the actual outcome of such items or factors. The forward-looking statements and information contained in this press release represents the expectations of Abaxx as of the date of this press release and, accordingly, is subject to change after such date. Abaxx undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements and information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. Accordingly, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements and information. Cboe Canada does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Brookfield Corporation Announces Renewal of Normal Course Issuer Bid

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BROOKFIELD, NEWS, May 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Brookfield Corporation (“Brookfield”) (NYSE: BN, TSX: BN) today announced it has received approval from the Toronto Stock Exchange (“TSX”) for the renewal of its normal course issuer bid to purchase up to 143,027,158 Class A Limited Voting Shares (“Class A Shares”), representing 10% of the public float of Brookfield’s outstanding Class A Shares. Purchases under the bid will be made on the open market through the facilities of the TSX, the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”), and/or alternative trading systems. The period of the normal course issuer bid will extend from May 27, 2025 to May 26, 2026, or an earlier date should Brookfield complete its purchases. Brookfield will pay the market price at the time of acquisition for any Class A Shares purchased or such other price as may be permitted.

    As at May 15, 2025, the number of Class A Shares issued and outstanding totaled 1,647,846,059 of which 1,430,271,580 shares represented the public float. In accordance with the rules of the TSX, the maximum daily purchase on the TSX under this bid will be 456,420 Class A Shares, which is 25% of 1,825,680 (the average daily trading volume for Class A Shares on the TSX for the six months ended April 30, 2025).

    Of the 142,988,844 Class A Shares approved for purchase under Brookfield’s prior normal course issuer bid that commenced on May 27, 2024 and will expire on May 26, 2025, Brookfield purchased 22,200,979 Class A Shares as of May 15, 2025; 2,835,555 Class A Shares through open market purchases on the TSX and 19,365,424 Class A Shares through open market purchases on the NYSE. The weighted average price that Brookfield paid per Class A Share acquired under this bid was US$51.20.

    Brookfield is renewing its normal course issuer bid because it believes that, from time to time, the market price of its Class A Shares may not fully reflect the underlying value of its business and its future business prospects. Brookfield believes that, in such circumstances, the outstanding Class A Shares represent an attractive investment for Brookfield, since a portion of its excess cash generated on an annual basis can be invested for an attractive risk adjusted return through the issuer bid. All Class A Shares acquired by Brookfield under this bid will be cancelled and/or purchased by a non-independent trustee pursuant to the terms of Brookfield’s long-term incentive plans.

    Brookfield intends to enter into an automatic share purchase plan on or about the week of June 16, 2025 in relation to the normal course issuer bid. The automatic share purchase plan will allow for the purchase of Class A Shares, subject to certain trading parameters, at times when Brookfield ordinarily would not be active in the market due to its own internal trading black-out period, insider trading rules or otherwise. Outside of these periods, Class A Shares will be repurchased in accordance with management’s discretion and in compliance with applicable law.

    About Brookfield Corporation

    Brookfield Corporation is a leading global investment firm focused on building long-term wealth for institutions and individuals around the world. We have three core businesses: Alternative Asset Management, Wealth Solutions, and our Operating Businesses which are in renewable power, infrastructure, business and industrial services, and real estate.

    We have a track record of delivering 15%+ annualized returns to shareholders for over 30 years, supported by our unrivaled investment and operational experience. Our conservatively managed balance sheet, extensive operational experience, and global sourcing networks allow us to consistently access unique opportunities. At the center of our success is the Brookfield Ecosystem, which is based on the fundamental principle that each group within Brookfield benefits from being part of the broader organization. Brookfield Corporation is publicly traded in New York and Toronto (NYSE: BN, TSX: BN).

    Please note that Brookfield Corporation’s previous audited annual and unaudited quarterly reports have been filed on EDGAR and SEDAR+ and can also be found in the investor section of its website at www.brookfield.com. Hard copies of the annual and quarterly reports can be obtained free of charge upon request.

    For more information, please visit our website at www.bn.brookfield.com or contact:                           

    Media: Investor Relations:
    Kerrie McHugh Katie Battaglia
    Tel: (212) 618-3469 Tel: (416) 359-8544
    Email: kerrie.mchugh@brookfield.com Email: katie.battaglia@brookfield.com


    Forward-Looking Statements

    This news release contains “forward-looking information” within the meaning of Canadian provincial securities laws and “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934, “safe harbor” provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and in any applicable Canadian securities regulations (collectively, “forward-looking statements”). Forward- looking statements include statements that are predictive in nature, depend upon or refer to future results, events or conditions, and include, but are not limited to, statements which reflect management’s current estimates, beliefs and assumptions regarding the operations, business, financial condition, expected financial results, performance, prospects, opportunities, priorities, targets, goals, ongoing objectives, strategies, capital management and outlook of Brookfield Corporation and its subsidiaries, as well as the outlook for North American and international economies for the current fiscal year and subsequent periods, and which in turn are based on our experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments, as well as other factors management believes are appropriate in the circumstances. The estimates, beliefs and assumptions of Brookfield Corporation are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive and other uncertainties and contingencies regarding future events and as such, are subject to change. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by words such as “expect,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “foresee,” “could,” “estimate,” “goal,” “intend,” “plan,” “seek,” “strive,” “will,” “may” and “should” and similar expressions. In particular, the forward-looking statements contained in this news release include statements referring to the impact of current market or economic conditions on our business, the future state of the economy or the securities market, the anticipated allocation and deployment of our capital, our fundraising targets, and our target growth objectives.

    Although Brookfield Corporation believes that such forward-looking statements are based upon reasonable estimates, beliefs and assumptions, actual results may differ materially from the forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated or implied by forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to: (i) returns that are lower than target; (ii) the impact or unanticipated impact of general economic, political and market factors in the countries in which we do business; (iii) the behavior of financial markets, including fluctuations in interest and foreign exchange rates and heightened inflationary pressures; (iv) global equity and capital markets and the availability of equity and debt financing and refinancing within these markets; (v) strategic actions including acquisitions and dispositions; the ability to complete and effectively integrate acquisitions into existing operations and the ability to attain expected benefits; (vi) changes in accounting policies and methods used to report financial condition (including uncertainties associated with critical accounting assumptions and estimates); (vii) the ability to appropriately manage human capital; (viii) the effect of applying future accounting changes; (ix) business competition; (x) operational and reputational risks; (xi) technological change; (xii) changes in government regulation and legislation within the countries in which we operate; (xiii) governmental investigations and sanctions; (xiv) litigation; (xv) changes in tax laws; (xvi) ability to collect amounts owed; (xvii) catastrophic events, such as earthquakes, hurricanes and epidemics/pandemics; (xviii) the possible impact of international conflicts and other developments including terrorist acts and cyberterrorism; (xix) the introduction, withdrawal, success and timing of business initiatives and strategies; (xx) the failure of effective disclosure controls and procedures and internal controls over financial reporting and other risks; (xxi) health, safety and environmental risks; (xxii) the maintenance of adequate insurance coverage; (xxiii) the existence of information barriers between certain businesses within our asset management operations; (xxiv) risks specific to our business segments including asset management, wealth solutions, renewable power and transition, infrastructure, private equity, real estate and corporate activities; and (xxv) factors detailed from time to time in our documents filed with the securities regulators in Canada and the United States.

    We caution that the foregoing list of important factors that may affect future results is not exhaustive and other factors could also adversely affect future results. Readers are urged to consider these risks, as well as other uncertainties, factors and assumptions carefully in evaluating the forward-looking statements and are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements, which are based only on information available to us as of the date of this news release or such other date specified herein. Except as required by law, Brookfield Corporation undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward- looking statements, whether written or oral, that may be as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Mexican Mafia Associate Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison

    Source: US FBI

    NEWS RELEASE SUMMARY – November 13, 2023

    SAN DIEGO – Juan Castro of San Diego was sentenced today in federal court to 10 years in prison and 10 years of supervised release for selling 109 grams of methamphetamine to a cooperating individual. 

    A government memorandum submitted for Castro’s sentencing described him as a high-ranking member of the San Ysidro (or “Sidro”) street gang and an associate of the Mexican Mafia. Castro oversaw day-to-day operations for Sidro which included collecting payments in exchange for allowing others to commit crimes in the San Ysidro area. The payments, or taxes, were then distributed to high-ranking Mexican Mafia members. In sentencing Castro, U.S. District Judge Larry Alan Burns called him a “hand puppet for the Mexican Mafia.”

    Castro was apprehended after a long-term investigation by the FBI’s Violent Crimes Task Force and Gang Group.

    DEFENDANT                                               Case Number 23-cr-00371-LAB                                        

    Juan Castro                                                     Age: 38                       San Diego, CA

    SUMMARY OF CHARGES

    Distribution of Methamphetamine – Title 21, U.S.C., Section 841(a)(1)

    Maximum penalty: Forty years in prison, with a mandatory minimum of five years, and $5 million fine

    AGENCIES

    Federal Bureau of Investigation – Violent Crimes Task Force – Gang Group (VCTF-GG), which currently includes investigators from the following agencies:

    • Federal Bureau of Investigation
    • San Diego Police Department
    • Homeland Security Investigations
    • Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives
    • California Department of Corrections
    • San Diego County Sheriff’s Department
    • Chula Vista Police Department
    • National City Police Department

    Although not currently part of VCTF-GG, during the investigation of this case, VCTF-GG also included investigators from the following:

    • Bureau of Prisons
    • San Diego District Attorney’s Office of Investigations

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Antony A. Jung Named as Special Agent in Charge of the Anchorage Field Office

    Source: US FBI

    Director Christopher Wray has named Antony A. Jung as the special agent in charge of the Anchorage Field Office in Alaska. Mr. Jung most recently served as a section chief in the Information Management Division in Winchester, Virginia.

    Mr. Jung joined the FBI as a special agent in 2004 and was first assigned to the Baton Rouge Resident Agency in the New Orleans Field Office. He investigated criminal matters and led a Safe Streets Gang Task Force. He was also a crisis negotiator.

    In 2009, he transferred to the Miami Field Office. He was then promoted to supervisory special agent and moved to the Criminal Investigative Division at FBI Headquarters and the Department of Justice’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) Fusion Center, where he served to support the FBI and other federal partners.

    In 2014, Mr. Jung was selected as a supervisory special agent in the Kansas City Field Office in Missouri. Mr. Jung led a High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force and squad investigating transnational organized crime and OCDETF matters.

    In 2017, Mr. Jung was promoted to assistant special agent in charge of the Criminal and Administrative Branch of the Anchorage Field Office. He also served as the acting special agent in charge.

    In 2019, Mr. Jung was promoted to section chief in the Information Management Division, where he led the National Name Check Program Section. The program supports partner agencies across the U.S. government vetting more than 3 million persons seeking federal employment, access to sensitive information, systems, facilities, special accesses, and various immigration matters.

    Prior to joining the FBI, Mr. Jung was a lieutenant with the Florida Highway Patrol. As a state trooper, he served on the Tactical Response Team and was a certified police and firearms instructor. Mr. Jung served in the Army National Guard. He earned a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science in criminal justice from the University of Central Florida and a doctorate in human services from Capella University. He is a recipient of the FBI Director’s Manuel J. Gonzales Ethics Award.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Four Additional Oath Keepers Sentenced for Seditious Conspiracy Related to U.S. Capitol Breach

    Source: US FBI

    Four members of the Oath Keepers were sentenced this week on seditious conspiracy and other charges for crimes related to the breach of the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. Their actions and the actions of others disrupted a joint session of the U.S. Congress that was in the process of ascertaining and counting the electoral votes related to the presidential election.

    Roberto Minuta, 39, of Prosper, Texas, was sentenced June 1 to 54 months in prison followed by 36 months of supervised release.

    Edward Vallejo, 64, of Phoenix, Arizona, was sentenced on June 1 to 36 months in prison followed by 36 months of supervised release, including the first 12 months to be served on home confinement.

    David Moerschel, 45, of Punta Gorda, Florida, was sentenced on June 2 to 36 months in prison followed by 36 months of supervised release.

    Joseph Hackett, 53, of Sarasota, Florida, was sentenced on June 2 to 42 months in prison followed by 36 months of supervised release.

    The four defendants were found guilty of seditious conspiracy, conspiracy to obstruct an official proceeding, obstruction of an official proceeding and conspiracy to prevent Members of Congress from discharging their official duties on Jan. 23, following a seven-week trial. Hackett was also found guilty of destruction of evidence.

    According to the evidence, in the months leading up to Jan. 6, the defendants and their co-conspirators plotted to oppose by force the lawful transfer of presidential power, including by amassing an armed “quick reaction force” on the outskirts of the District of Columbia. Beginning in late December 2020, via encrypted and private communications applications, the defendants and various co-conspirators coordinated and planned to travel to Washington, D.C., on or around Jan. 6, 2021, the date of the certification of the electoral college vote. The defendants made plans to bring weapons to the area to support the operation. The co-conspirators then traveled across the country to the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area in early January 2021, with paramilitary gear and supplies including firearms, tactical vests with plates, helmets, and radio equipment.

    The defendants conspired through a variety of manners and means, including: organizing into teams that were prepared and willing to use force and to transport firearms and ammunition into Washington, D.C.; recruiting members and affiliates to participate in the conspiracy; organizing trainings to teach and learn paramilitary combat tactics; bringing and contributing paramilitary gear, weapons, and supplies – including knives, camouflaged combat uniforms, tactical vests with plates, helmets, eye protection and radio equipment – to the Capitol grounds; breaching and attempting to take control of the Capitol grounds and building on Jan. 6, 2021, in an effort to prevent, hinder and delay the certification of the electoral college vote; using force against law enforcement officers while inside the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021; continuing to plot, after Jan. 6, 2021, to oppose by force the lawful transfer of presidential power and using websites, social media, text messaging and encrypted messaging applications to communicate with co-conspirators and others.

    The case is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia and the Justice Department’s National Security and Criminal Divisions. Valuable assistance was provided by numerous U.S. Attorneys’ Offices across the country.

    The case is being investigated by the FBI’s Washington Field Office, as well as the Metropolitan Police Department, with significant assistance provided by the FBI’s New York, Dallas, Tampa and Phoenix Field Offices. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Capitol Police and the U.S. Secret Service.

    In the 28 months since Jan. 6, 2021, more than 1,000 individuals have been arrested in nearly all 50 states for crimes related to the breach of the U.S. Capitol, including more than 320 individuals charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement. The investigation remains ongoing. 

    Anyone with tips can call 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or visit tips.fbi.gov.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Arizona Adoption Attorney Sentenced to Over Six Years in Prison for Alien Smuggling for Financial Gain

    Source: US FBI

    Fayetteville, Arkansas – First Assistant United States Attorney David Clay Fowlkes for the Western District of Arkansas, Special Agent in Charge Diane Upchurch of the FBI Little Rock Field Office, Special Agent in Charge Peter Kapoukakis of the U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service, Miami Field Office and Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge announced that Paul Petersen, age 45, of Mesa, Arizona was sentenced today to 72 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release and ordered to pay a fine and court costs totaling $105,100.00 for Conspiracy to Smuggle Illegal Aliens for Commercial Advantage and Private Financial Gain. The Honorable Timothy L. Brooks presided over the sentencing in the U.S. District Court in Fayetteville.

    “The defendant in this case violated the laws of three states and two countries during the course of his criminal scheme,” stated First Assistant United States Attorney Fowlkes.”  He exploited a legal loophole and used it to run an International adoption business outside the necessary oversight from the United States or the Republic of the Marshall Islands.  During the scheme, the defendant lied to state court judges, falsified records, encouraged others to lie during court proceedings, and manipulated birth mothers into consenting to adoptions they did not fully understand.  This unique case merited the strong sentence ordered by the Court today.  It is our sincere hope that this sentence sends a message to those who would seek to conduct human trafficking operations in the Western District of Arkansas, and to those who would seek to manipulate and take advantage of people like the Marshallese citizens in this case.”

    According to the Plea Agreement filed in this case, the FBI, the DSS and local law enforcement, have been actively investigating the criminal activities of Paul Petersen, 44, of Mesa, Arizona, for several years. During the course of the investigation, law enforcement determined that the defendant, Paul Petersen, among other things, orchestrated the travel of several pregnant women from the Republic of the Marshall Islands to the Western District of Arkansas.  The purpose of this travel was for Petersen to arrange adoption of their children by families living in the United States. 

    The Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI) is an island country near the equator in the Pacific Ocean, slightly west of the International Date Line.  In 1983, the United States entered into a Compact of Free Association (hereinafter, the “Compact”) with the RMI government.  The United States and the RMI signed an Amended Compact in 2003, which Congress codified at Public Law 108-188.  Section 141 of the Compact grants RMI citizens the ability to freely enter and take up employment within the United States.  Section 141(b) prohibits RMI citizens from entering the United States under the Compact agreement if their travel is for the purpose of adoption.

    According to the Plea Agreement, the Defendant, Paul Petersen, is a licensed attorney who practices law in Arizona, Utah, and Arkansas.  During the course of the investigation, FBI and DSS agents discovered that Petersen used credit card accounts that he controlled to purchase airline tickets for several women, all citizens of the RMI who did not have official authorization to enter or reside in the United States, to travel from the RMI to the Western District of Arkansas.  This travel arranged and funded by Petersen was in violation of the Immigration and Nationality Act because the women were all citizens of the RMI and were not eligible for admission into the United States under the terms of the Compact.  According to State of Arkansas Circuit Court records, the families who adopted these children paid Petersen significant sums of money for him to act as a legal facilitator of the adoptions.  Finally, also according to the Plea Agreement, witness interviews conducted by the agents investigating Petersen revealed that it was part of the conspiracy that Petersen’s co-conspirators offered the women $10,000 to induce them to travel to the United States and consent to the adoptions.

     A federal grand jury indicted Petersen in October 2019, and he entered a guilty plea in June 2020.

    The FBI and the DSS conducted the investigation. First Assistant United States Attorney David Clay Fowlkes, Deputy Criminal Chief Kim Harris, and Assistant United States Attorney Sydney Butler are prosecuting the case. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs of the Department’s Criminal Division also assisted in the investigation.

    MIL Security OSI –